leste

Leste is the Portuguese word for the cardinal direction east. In Portuguese, it functions as both a noun and an adjective to describe the direction toward the east or things located in that direction. It is used alongside other directional terms such as norte (north), sul (south), and oeste (west). In geographic writing and everyday speech, leste appears in phrases like “leste do país” (the eastern part of the country) or “quadrante leste” (eastern quadrant).

One notable and widely recognized use of the term is in the official name of East Timor: Timor-Leste. This designation reflects the country’s Portuguese heritage and its participation in Lusophone organizations. In international dialogue, Timor-Leste is the standard Portuguese form used to refer to the nation, while English uses East Timor.

Outside of proper names, leste is primarily a general geographic descriptor within Portuguese-speaking communities. It is not commonly used as a standalone designation outside official or formal contexts, but it remains a standard term in maps, directions, and regional descriptions. In related Romance languages, cognate terms exist for east, though exact forms and historical development vary by language.

See also: East Timor, East (direction), Timor-Leste.