What WNW stands for on a compass is West-Northwest.
Understanding WNW on a Compass
On a compass, WNW represents the specific direction located precisely midway between West (W) and Northwest (NW). This makes it an intermediate compass point, offering more precision than the primary cardinal or intercardinal directions alone.
The 32-point compass rose, which includes these finer distinctions, assigns a specific bearing to each direction. WNW corresponds to 292.5 degrees on a 360-degree compass scale, making it:
- 22.5 degrees north of West (270° + 22.5° = 292.5°)
- 22.5 degrees west of Northwest (315° - 22.5° = 292.5°)
This detailed breakdown allows for highly accurate navigation and direction reporting.
Common Compass Points and Their Meanings
Understanding the hierarchy of compass points helps to contextualize WNW:
| Abbreviation | Full Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| N | North | Primary Cardinal Point (0°/360°) |
| NE | Northeast | Midway between North and East (45°) |
| E | East | Primary Cardinal Point (90°) |
| SE | Southeast | Midway between South and East (135°) |
| S | South | Primary Cardinal Point (180°) |
| SW | Southwest | Midway between South and West (225°) |
| W | West | Primary Cardinal Point (270°) |
| NW | Northwest | Midway between North and West (315°) |
| WNW | West-Northwest | Midway between West and Northwest (292.5°) |
| NNW | North-Northwest | Midway between North and Northwest (337.5°) |
Note: This table includes the four cardinal points (N, E, S, W), the four intercardinal points (NE, SE, SW, NW), and two of the eight secondary intercardinal points (WNW, NNW) for context.
Where WNW is Used
The use of precise compass points like WNW is crucial in various fields:
- Navigation: Pilots, sailors, and hikers rely on these exact directions for plotting courses and maintaining bearings, especially when following detailed maps or charts.
- Weather Forecasting: Wind direction is often reported using these points (e.g., "winds from the WNW at 15 knots"), which is vital for understanding weather patterns and their impact.
- Urban Planning and Architecture: Orienting buildings to face specific directions for optimal sunlight exposure, energy efficiency, or views often involves precise compass bearings.
- Military Operations: Precision in direction is paramount for tactical movements, target identification, and strategic planning.
- Outdoor Activities: Campers, hunters, and adventurers use these specific points for land navigation and communicating their position or desired route.
By understanding that WNW stands for West-Northwest, one gains a more precise tool for describing direction and navigating the world.
