trade wind

Definition

A steady wind that blows from east to west above and below the equator.

Etymology

Compound of trade (“course, path (of running)”, from 14th c.) + wind, because of their consistent linear direction. Associations with transatlantic trade are a later folk etymology.

Example Sentences

• "They rode the trade winds going west."
• "During the summer months, from November to April, the trade wind is less steady over large parts of the ocean."