# windward

/ˈwɪndwɝd/ (US) · /wˈɪndwəd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/windward
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

the side of a ship or island that faces the wind. It is the side that is directly hit by the wind as it blows.

For teachers: the side of a vessel or landmass that is exposed to the wind. In nautical contexts, it refers to the direction from which the wind is blowing.

## Examples

- The crew stayed on the windward side of the ship.
- The sailors decided to anchor on the leeward side of the island to avoid the strong windward waves.
- Navigating the narrow channel required the captain to keep the vessel close to the windward shore, where the current was less turbulent and the visibility was better.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.