■ noun (usu. the ~ )
1》 the direction towards the point of the horizon where the sun sets at the equinoxes, on the left-hand side of a person facing north.
2》 the ~ of a country, region, or town.
↘( the West ) Europe and North America seen in contrast to other civilizations.
↘( the West ) historical the non-Communist states of Europe and North America.
■ adjective
1》 lying towards, near, or facing the ~.
2》 (of a wind) blowing from the ~.
■ adverb to or towards the ~.
Phrases
go ~ Brit. informal be killed or lost.
Derivatives
~bound adjective & adverb
Origin
OE, of Gmc origin.