north-northeast
UK[ˌnɔːθ nɔːθˈiːst]US[ˌnɔːrθ nɔːrθˈiːst]
n
the compass point or direction midway between north and northeast
adj
of, relating to, or situated in the north-northeast
adv
toward or from the north-northeast
Morpheme Breakdown
north
northeast
north
direction
northeast
direction
Etymology
the term 'north-northeast' is a modern english compound formed by combining the cardinal point 'north' with the intercardinal point 'northeast'. this follows a traditional mariner's system for specifying precise bearings by naming the cardinal point first, followed by the intercardinal point toward which the direction leans. the logic is strictly geometric, dividing the compass rose into 32 points. the word 'north' itself has ancient germanic roots, while 'east' derives from a proto-indo-european root related to dawn. the compound's meaning is thus entirely literal and directional, representing a point one quarter of the way from north toward northeast.
Analysis
Structure: north (direction) + northeast (direction)
north: from old english 'north', of germanic origin; related to dutch 'noord' and german 'nord'. functions as the primary cardinal direction.
northeast: a compound of 'north' and 'east', indicating a secondary intercardinal direction. 'east' is from old english 'ēast', of germanic origin.
Examples
the wind shifted to the north-northeast, bringing colder air.
the small island lies roughly north-northeast of the main port.
they sailed on a north-northeast heading for two days.