Southwest

/saʊθˈwɛst/

Meaning & Definition

noun
a direction on the compass, bearing 225 degrees.
We were headed in a southwest direction across the desert.
the southwestern part of a country or region.
The southwest of the country is known for its beautiful landscapes.
adjective
relating to the southwest region or direction, specifically the compass point that is halfway between south and west.
The southwest winds brought a warm breeze to the coast.
located in the southwest part of a place.
They traveled to the southwest corner of the city for the festival.
adverb
in the southwest direction.
They moved southwest, away from the storm.

Etymology

Middle English, from south + west.

Common Phrases and Expressions

Southwest Airlines
A major American airline based in Dallas.
Southwest Passage
A nautical route through the waters south of North America.
Southwestern style
A style of architecture or decoration inspired by the culture of the southwestern United States.

Related Words

south
The cardinal direction opposite to north.
west
The cardinal direction opposite to east.
southward
In a direction toward the south.

Slang Meanings