What does it mean when the wind is said to "veer"?

When wind is said to "veer," it refers to a change in direction that occurs in a clockwise manner. This terminology often arises in meteorology and aviation when discussing shifts in wind direction that can affect weather patterns and flight operations.

Veering winds typically indicate changes in weather systems, where winds shift from a direction closer to the north towards the east, or from the east towards the south, and so on, moving in a clockwise direction. This can be essential for pilots to understand as it impacts flight planning and navigation during flight.

The other options suggest changes in wind direction that do not align with the definition of "veering." For instance, a counter-clockwise change is referred to as "backing," while a horizontal shift towards the equator does not accurately describe the terminology used in meteorology. A wind that remains constant in direction does not reflect any change at all, thereby contrasting with the concept of veering.