South

/saʊθ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The direction toward the point of the horizon 90 degrees clockwise from east; the direction in which a compass needle normally points.
The sun sets in the west, so we need to head south to find the ancient ruins.
One of the four cardinal points, situated directly opposite north.
They traveled south for several days before reaching the tropical rainforest.
The southern part of a region or country.
The south of France is known for its picturesque landscapes and vineyards.
adjective
Located in or toward the south.
They took a vacation to a south-facing beach resort.
Coming from the southern part of a specified area.
He is a south American artist who draws inspiration from nature.
adverb
In the direction of the south.
We decided to move south to escape the cold weather.
From the north to the south.
The storm system is moving south faster than anticipated.

Etymology

Old English 'sūþ', related to Old High German 'sund' (south).

Common Phrases and Expressions

south of the border
Referring to areas south of a defined line, often referring to Mexico from the USA.
go south
To decline or worsen.
southbound
Traveling toward the south.

Related Words

southern
Of, relating to, or characteristic of the south.
southeast
The direction between south and east.
southwest
The direction between south and west.

Slang Meanings

Southern hospitality
As soon as we arrived, we were greeted with southern hospitality.
South Side
He’s from the South Side of Chicago.