Before the wind is an idiomatic expression that is commonly used in English. It is a phrase that has its roots in the maritime industry, and it has evolved to mean something entirely different in modern times. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of before the wind, its origin, and its use in different contexts.
Definitions
Before the wind is a nautical term that refers to a ship’s position relative to the direction of the wind. When a ship is before the wind, it is sailing in the same direction as the wind. This position is considered to be the easiest and most comfortable for a ship to sail in.
In modern times, before the wind has taken on a figurative meaning. It is used to describe a situation where someone or something is moving effortlessly in the same direction as the prevailing conditions. For example, if a business is thriving in a booming economy, it can be said to be sailing before the wind.
Origin
The phrase before the wind has its roots in the maritime industry. It was first used to describe the position of a ship relative to the direction of the wind. The phrase was used to indicate that the ship was sailing in the same direction as the wind, making it easier to navigate.
Over time, before the wind evolved to take on a more figurative meaning. It was used to describe situations where someone or something was moving effortlessly in the same direction as the prevailing conditions.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, before the wind means “in the direction of the wind, with the wind blowing from behind.” The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines it as “moving in the same direction as the wind.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “moving in the same direction as the wind, making it easier to sail a boat.”
Associations
Before the wind is associated with sailing, the sea, and the maritime industry. It is also associated with ease, comfort, and success. When something is sailing before the wind, it is moving effortlessly and smoothly in the same direction as the prevailing conditions.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of before the wind include:
- With the wind.
- Downwind.
- Following the wind.
- In the same direction as the wind.
- Effortlessly.
Antonyms
Some antonyms of before the wind include:
- Against the wind.
- Upwind.
- Beating to windward.
- Contrary to prevailing conditions.
The same root words
Before the wind does not have any root words.
Example Sentences
- The ship was sailing before the wind, making it easy for the crew to navigate.
- The business was sailing before the wind in a booming economy.
- The runner was running before the wind, making it easier to set a new record.
- The kite was flying before the wind, soaring high in the sky.
Before the wind is an idiomatic expression that has its roots in the maritime industry. It refers to a ship’s position relative to the direction of the wind. In modern times, it is used to describe situations where someone or something is moving effortlessly in the same direction as the prevailing conditions. It is associated with ease, comfort, and success.