ONWARD Synonyms: 16 Similar and Opposite Words

onward

adverb

ˈȯn-wərd

variants also onwards

Definition of onward next

as in forward

toward a point ahead in space or time we must continue to move onward, or we will die in this desert

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

backward

as in along

toward or at a point lying in advance in space or time work on the project has been continuing onward at a steady pace

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of onward There was a pervasive sense of cultural apathy regarding the study of the past that was growing stronger by the minute, as if the world had already accrued the maximum knowledge of prior civilizations and required nothing further in order to barrel onward into the future. —

Literary Hub, 1 Apr. 2026 From this point onwards, Robin kept it on the mantle in her apartment. —

Jane Lacroix, PEOPLE, 31 Mar. 2026 From the ground station onward, the data pipeline typically runs over conventional fiber-optic backhaul. —

Tejasri Gururaj, Interesting Engineering, 30 Mar. 2026 Calipari made sure to give Acuff a handshake on his way off the podium — and likely onward to the NBA. —

Cam Inman, Mercury News, 27 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for onward

Recent Examples of Synonyms for onward

Adverb

Cass High officials said the school will carry forward Dean's commitment to students and his example of compassion and dedication.

— Zachary Bynum, CBS News, 14 Apr. 2026
The Senate plans to move forward with a narrow budget reconciliation bill to fund ICE and CPB for the next three years with Senate Budget Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham leading the charge, Senate Majority Leader John Thune said.

— John Parkinson, ABC News, 13 Apr. 2026