northwards

Northwards is an English adverb indicating movement, orientation, or location toward the north. It is largely synonymous with northward, with the main difference being regional preference: northwards is more common in British and Commonwealth English, while northward is more common in American English.

Etymology and form: It derives from north + wards, from Old English norþweard, combining norþ (north) with weard (toward). It is primarily used as an adverb; some uses treat it as an adjective in set phrases, though this is less common.

Usage: The term describes direction in travel, wind, migrations, or compass bearings: “The river bends northwards.” “The expedition moved northwards for several days.” In meteorology, a system may advance northwards. In nautical and aeronautical contexts it substitutes “to the north.” The form is preferred in formal or literary contexts in Britain and other Commonwealth nations.

Northward, the related form without -s, is more common as an adjective or in American English: “a northward wind” or “a northward migration.” Both forms are usually understood; choice often follows regional or stylistic guidelines.

See also: directions such as eastwards, southwards, westwards, and the broader set of directional suffixes and compass terminology.