<P> Windward (pronounced / ˈwɪndwərd /) is the direction upwind from the point of reference, alternatively the direction from which the wind is coming . Leeward (pronounced / ˈliːwərd / or / ˈluːɜ (ɹ) d /) is the direction downwind (or downward) from the point of reference . The leeward region of mountains generally remains dry as compared to the windward . The side of a ship that is towards the leeward is its lee side . If the vessel is heeling under the pressure of the wind, this will be the "lower side". During the age of sail, the term weather was used as a synonym for windward in some contexts, as in the weather gage . </P> <P> Windward and leeward directions are important factors (points of sail) to consider when sailing a sailing ship . Other terms with broadly the same meaning are widely used, particularly upwind and downwind . </P> <P> The windward vessel is normally the more maneuverable vessel . For this reason, rule 12 of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea stipulates that the windward vessel gives way to the leeward vessel . </P> <P> In warfare, a square rigged warship would often try to enter battle from the windward direction (or "hold the weather gauge"), thus gaining an important tactical advantage over the opposing warship--the warship to windward could choose when to engage and when to withdraw . The opposing warship to leeward could often do little but comply without exposing itself unduly . </P>

Effects of windward and leeward sides of a mountain