In nautical terms, what is the side opposite the wind called?

The side opposite the wind is referred to as "leeward." In nautical terminology, leeward describes the direction away from which the wind is coming. When a boat is sailing, the wind creates a pressure differential on the boat's sails, propelling it forward. Consequently, the leeward side is the area that is sheltered from the wind and is crucial for understanding wind direction while navigating.

Understanding the term leeward helps divers and sailors recognize how environmental factors affect their movements and orientation in the water or on a vessel. In various maritime activities, including diving from a boat or planning a dive, knowing the leeward side allows one to avoid strong wind effects and conditions that could complicate the experience. The other terms provided represent different aspects of a vessel's structure or movement but do not specifically relate to wind direction.