ONWARDS 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 In New England, where manpower shortages made exclusion impractical, Black men served in militias from the 1600s onward. —

Ed Gaskin, Boston Herald, 1 Mar. 2026 From that time onward, meteorologists were hammering on the forecast, increasing snowfall totals, wind speeds and the overall threat level to make sure people knew the seriousness of what was coming in less than 48 hours. —

Andrew Freedman, CNN Money, 23 Feb. 2026 Faced with way-too-high gym rates and struggling to pay rent, Brittany presses onward in her training and hopes to get by with a little help from friends. —

Kevin Jacobsen, Entertainment Weekly, 22 Feb. 2026 Canada trailed Finland 2-0 for much of today's semifinal game, but from midway through the second period onward, Canada scored three unanswered goals to win this game. —

Andrew Greif, NBC news, 20 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for onward

Recent Examples of Synonyms for onward

Adverb

The game between Dallas and the Columbus Blue Jackets is postponed by the NHL after Stars forward Rich Peverley collapses on the bench during the first period.

— Senior Editor, Los Angeles Times, 10 Mar. 2026
The Broncos were led by sophomore forward Libby Hutton’s 25 points.

— Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 10 Mar. 2026