n.1. Abbr. Wa. The cardinal point on the mariner's compass 270° clockwise from due north and directly opposite east.
b. The direction opposite to the direction of the earth's axial rotation.
2. An area or region lying in the west.
3. often
Westa. The western part of the earth, especially Europe and the Western Hemisphere.
b. The western part of a region or country.
4. often
Westa. A historical region of the United States west of the Allegheny Mountains.
b. The region of the United States west of the Mississippi River.
5. often
Westa. The United States, Canada, and the noncommunist countries of Europe, especially during the Cold War.
b. The nations of North America and Europe with developed capitalist economies, especially in contrast to less-developed nations.
6. The end of a church opposite the altar. Also called liturgical west.
adj.1. To, toward, of, facing, or in the west.
2. Originating in or coming from the west: a gentle west wind.