Of or pertaining to a region, place, or point which is nearer the north than some other region, place, or point mentioned or indicated: as, the northern States; the northern part of Michigan; northern people. Abbreviated N.Directed or leading toward the north or a point near it: as, to steer a northern course.Proceeding from the north.n. A native or an inhabitant of the north, of a northern country, or of the northern part of a country.