North

Definition

North is a noun, adjective, and adverb. As a noun, it refers to the direction corresponding to the top of most maps, opposite to south. As an adjective, it describes something situated in, coming from, or facing toward the north. As an adverb, it denotes movement or orientation toward the north.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective
• Adverb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /nɔːrθ/
• Respelling: NORTH

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /nɔːθ/
• Respelling: NORTH

Etymology

The word "north" originates from the Old English "norð," derived from Proto-Germanic "*nurtha-" and Proto-Indo-European "*ner-" (left or below), referencing the position of the sun in the northern hemisphere. It has been used to describe this cardinal direction since ancient times.

Derivatives

• Northward (adjective/adverb)
• Northern (adjective)
• Northmost (adjective)
• Northerner (noun)
• Northbound (adjective)

Synonyms

• Boreal
• Arctic
• Polar

Antonyms

• South
• Antarctic
• None

Usage

The term "north" is widely used in geography, navigation, and general language to denote direction or location. For example: "The compass points to the north," or "She traveled north for the summer."

Related Terms

• Compass: A tool for determining direction.
• Latitude: A geographic coordinate that specifies north-south position.
• Axis: An imaginary line around which the Earth rotates, pointing to the North Pole.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The cardinal direction opposite south: Refers to the direction on a compass corresponding to 0° or 360°.
  • Example: "The explorers set their sights on the north."
• A region or area situated toward the north: Describes geographical areas in relation to this direction.
  • Example: "The north of the country experiences colder winters."

Adjective

• Situated in or facing toward the north: Refers to locations or objects oriented toward this direction.
  • Example: "The north wall of the house receives less sunlight."
• Coming from the north: Describes wind, people, or items originating in the north.
  • Example: "A north wind brought cooler air."

Adverb

• Toward the north: Indicates movement or direction.
  • Example: "They drove north to reach the mountains."