South - Wikipedia-style Article
South
Definition
The term "south" refers to one of the four cardinal directions, indicating the direction opposite to north, or a region or area located in that direction.
Parts of Speech
Pronunciation
American English
- IPA Pronunciation: /saʊθ/
- Respelling: sowth
British English
- IPA Pronunciation: /saʊθ/
- Respelling: sowth
Etymology
The word "south" originates from Old English "sūð," meaning "southward" or "to the south." It is related to Old High German "sund," Old Norse "suðr," and Proto-Germanic "*sunþrą," derived from a root that likely refers to the direction of the sun.
Derivatives
- Southern (adjective)
- Southerly (adjective/adverb)
- Southward (adjective/adverb)
- Southbound (adjective)
- Southerner (noun)
Synonyms
- Southward
- Southern region
- Downward direction (contextual)
Antonyms
- North
- Northward
- Northern region
Usage
The term "south" is used in geographic, cultural, and navigational contexts. For example, "The city is located in the south of the country" (noun), "They took the south road to reach the coast" (adjective), or "The birds are migrating south for the winter" (adverb).
Related Terms
- North: The cardinal direction opposite to south.
- East: The cardinal direction to the right of south.
- West: The cardinal direction to the left of south.
Detailed Definitions
Noun
- A cardinal direction: Refers to the direction opposite to north.
- Example: "They traveled to the south for warmer weather."
- A region or area: Refers to a part of a country or world located in the southern direction.
- Example: "The south is known for its rich cultural heritage."
Adjective
- Located in the south: Refers to something situated in or originating from the southern region.
- Example: "The south gate of the park is always open."
Adverb
- In or toward the south: Refers to movement or orientation in the southern direction.
- Example: "The river flows south toward the ocean."