northerly

[nawr-ther-lee]

adjective

1. moving, directed, or situated toward the north.

2. (especially of a wind) coming from the north.

   a northerly gale.

adverb

1. toward the north.

2. from the north.

noun

plural

northerlies 

1. a wind that blows from the north.

northerly

/ ˈnɔːðəlɪ /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or situated in the north

adverb

1. towards or in the direction of the north

2. from the north

   a northerly wind

noun

1. a wind from the north

Other Word Forms

• northerliness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of northerly¹

1545–55; north + -erly, modeled on easterly

Example Sentences

Brisk northerly winds will develop for the second half of the weekend bringing much cooler air southwards.

From BBC

Although northerly winds are expected to develop over the weekend bringing a return of cooler conditions - and probably more rain.

From BBC

This will give rise to a north-easterly or northerly air flow and whilst it will be warm for many, this will more likely be in central and western areas of the UK.

From BBC

Shetland Islands Council says it is pushing ahead with plans to build tunnels to four outlying isles in the archipelago including Unst, the most northerly place in the UK.

From BBC

With an area of low pressure still close to the UK winds will swing round to come from a more northerly direction.

From BBC