hi! The origins or words is more a question for historical linguistics; there are a few linguists here, so hopefully you'll get more information, but meanwhile you may be interested in these posts

• How long have we used the cardinal directions?

• Is it an coincidence that the Pyramid of Cheops lines up so well with the Google Maps window?

• Have any cultures or civilizations had fewer or more than 4 cardinal directions? Why do we only have 4?

• Have people always used north south east and west? Are there any cultures that used/use different directional language or orientations?

as for map orientation, you can get started in the FAQ

• Why is north shown as "up" on maps?