Northwest \North`west"\, n. [AS. nor[eth]west.]

The point in the horizon between the north and west, and equally distant from each; the northwest part or region.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
 

Northwest \North`west"\, a.

1. Pertaining to, or in the direction of, the point between the north and west; being in the northwest; toward the northwest, or coming from the northwest; as, the northwest coast.

2. Coming from the northwest; as, a northwest wind.

Northwest passage, a passage or communication by sea between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans along the north coast of America, long sought for by navigators.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
 

Northwest \North`west"\, adv. Toward the northwest.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)