Synonyms of downward

downward 1 of 2

adjective

as in bowed

directed down

fishermen keep watch for the downward plunge of seabirds diving for food

Synonyms & Similar Words

• bowed
• lowered
• down
• downcast

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• upward
• lifted
• elevated
• uplifted
• raised

downward

2 of 2

adverb

ˈdau̇n-wərd 

variants or downwards

as in down

toward or in a lower position

at this point the river flows gently downward to the sea

Synonyms & Similar Words

• down
• below
• over
• downhill
• downstairs
• low
• downgrade
• facedown

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• upward
• up
• upwardly
• aloft

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of downward

Adjective

But other analysts say that crime is following a long-time downward trend that was interrupted during the COVID-19 pandemic. — Jack Harvel, Kansas City Star, 20 Oct. 2026

Metal forks are stored handles downward and plastic forks are positioned both directions for patron self service. — Nwa Democrat-Gazette, Arkansas Online, 19 Oct. 2026

Adverb

In some parts of the country, SNAP participation had been ticking downward as people returned to work and saw their wages increase after the pandemic, Bergh said. — Lauren Lumpkin, Washington Post, 22 Oct. 2026

The chorus broke open with two major chords, and the two people fumbled their way down the hall in the story while the musical progression tumbled downward, along with the protagonist’s self-respect. — Tom Roland, Billboard, 21 Oct. 2026