1. [n]  the direction from which the wind is coming
2. [adv]  away from the wind; "they were sailing windward"
3. [adj]  on the side exposed to the wind; "the windward islands"

WINDWARD is a 8 letter word that starts with W.

1. \Wind"ward\, n.
   The point or side from which the wind blows; as, to ply to
   the windward; -- opposed to {leeward}.
   
   {To lay an anchor to the windward}, a figurative expression,
      signifying to adopt precautionary or anticipatory measures
      for success or security.
   
   

2. \Wind"ward\, a.
   Situated toward the point from which the wind blows; as, the
   Windward Islands.
   
   

3. \Wind"ward\, adv.
   Toward the wind; in the direction from which the wind blows.