Pronunciation: [bˈakɪŋ ɒvðə wˈɪnd] (IPA) 
The word "backing of the wind" is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /ˈbækɪŋ əv ðə wɪnd/. The pronunciation of "backing" begins with the letter "b" followed by the "a" sound as in "cat" and "king." The "i" is pronounced as "ih" and the "ng" sound is added to the ending of the word. "Wind" starts with the "w" sound followed by the "i" as in "pin" sound and ends with the soft "d" sound.
The phrase "backing of the wind" is primarily used in the contexts of meteorology and sailing. It refers to a change in the direction of the wind in a counterclockwise manner, usually against the normal or expected pattern. This alteration occurs when the wind shifts in a direction opposite to that of the clockwise rotation typical in the Northern Hemisphere. Consequently, the backing of the wind is observed when it changes from a southerly direction to a more easterly one or from a westerly direction to a more southerly one.
The term "backing" in this context can be thought of as the wind retreating or moving backwards contrary to its usual course, hence the name. This phenomenon is often linked to the rotation and shifting of large-scale weather systems or atmospheric circulation patterns. Such changes in wind direction may have significant impacts on various activities such as sailing, aviation, and predicting weather patterns. For sailors, the backing of the wind can affect their ability to effectively navigate their vessels. Additionally, meteorologists and weather forecasters closely monitor these wind changes to determine potential weather disturbances or changes in atmospheric patterns. By analyzing and understanding the backing of the wind, experts can make more accurate predictions about weather conditions and severe weather events.
When the wind appears to shift against the suns course, being a sign of more wind or bad weather.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
