What does "leeway" refer to in navigation?

Leeway refers to the lateral drift of a vessel caused by the influence of wind or ocean currents. When a vessel is underway, it does not travel in a straight line; instead, external forces such as wind can make it drift sideways, away from its intended course. This lateral movement can significantly affect navigation, especially in situations where precise headings are crucial or in tight waterways where maintaining a specific position is essential. Understanding leeway helps a navigator compensate for this drift by adjusting the vessel's heading to ensure it remains on the desired course.