ClimateAugust 20, 2026

leeward

LEE-wurd

Definition

The side of something, such as a building, hill, or city, that is sheltered from or facing away from the prevailing wind.

Etymology

Originating from Old English 'hleo' (shelter) and 'weard' (direction), the term was traditionally used in nautical contexts to describe the side of a ship protected from the wind.

In the news

The article uses the term to identify the sides of cities that are often more polluted because they are sheltered from the prevailing winds, which can lead to disproportionate health impacts on local residents.

The State of Fire

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