See also lee.

Definition

Noun

  • The side or direction away from which the wind is blowing.

Origin

14 century. Possibly a newer spelling of lewward. This may account for the sailor’s pronunciation of the word as “looward.”

Comments

The opposite is windward; that is, the side facing the wind.

References

Rogers, J.G. (1985). Origins of Sea Terms. Mystic Seaport.