Definition of "east" in English

noun

1. The direction of the earth's rotation, specifically 90°.

   • Portsmouth is to the east of Southampton.
   • We live in the east of the country.
   • The sun rises in the east.
   • The levanter wind is in/from the east.

2. The eastern region or area; the inhabitants thereof.

3. (ecclesiastical) In a church: the direction of the altar and chancel; the direction faced by the priest when celebrating ad orientem.

adjective

1. Situated or lying in or towards the east; eastward.

2. (meteorology) Blowing (as wind) from the east.

3. Of or pertaining to the east; eastern.

4. From the East; oriental.

5. (ecclesiastical) Designating, or situated in, the liturgical east.

   • the east front of a cathedral

adverb

1. Towards the east; eastwards.