backward
1back·ward
adverb \ˈbak-wərd\Definition of BACKWARD
1
a : toward the back b : with the back foremost
2
a : in a reverse or contrary direction or way b : toward the past c : toward a worse state
— bend over backward or lean over backward
: to make extreme efforts (as at concession)
Variants of BACKWARD
back·ward or back·wards \-wərdz\
Examples of BACKWARD
- a sudden movement backward, not forward
- I heard a noise behind me and glanced backward.
- He pushed the throttle backward.
- She took a small step backward.
- a journey backward in time
- The narrative moves backward and forward in time.
First Known Use of BACKWARD
14th century
2backward
adjectiveDefinition of BACKWARD
1
a : directed or turned backward b : done or executed backward
3
: retarded in development
— back·ward·ly adverb
— back·ward·ness noun
Examples of BACKWARD
- a technologically backward village that has no running water
- <a backward turn on ice skates is hard to learn because you can't see where you're going>
First Known Use of BACKWARD
14th century
Related to BACKWARD
- Synonyms
- rearward, retrograde
- Antonyms
- extroverted (also extraverted), immodest, outgoing
3backward
nounDefinition of BACKWARD
: the part behind or past
First Known Use of BACKWARD
1610
Learn More About BACKWARD
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Previous Word in the Dictionary: back vent
All Words Near: backward
Previous Word in the Dictionary: back vent
All Words Near: backward
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