backward
backward Lexical Profile
backward Game Scores & Validity
• adjective
Directed toward the back or rear, or occurring in reverse of the usual order or direction.
"She took a cautious backward step away from the edge of the platform."
Having made less than normal social, economic, or technological progress; underdeveloped or reactionary.
"The region struggled for decades with backward infrastructure and limited access to electricity."
Reluctant, hesitant, or shy in social situations.
"He is certainly not backward in expressing his opinions during board meetings."
• adverb
Toward the back or rear; in the direction behind one's back.
"He leaned backward in his chair and stretched his arms."
In the reverse of the usual or right way; from the end toward the beginning.
"The child proudly recited the entire alphabet backward without making a single mistake."
Toward a worse, less advanced, or previous state.
"Critics argued that the new regulations would move the industry backward rather than encourage innovation."
Word Nuance & Usage
As an adjective, 'backward' is standard in both American and British English (e.g., 'a backward glance'). As an adverb, 'backward' and 'backwards' are interchangeable in American English, whereas British English strongly prefers 'backwards'.
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
From Middle English 'bakward', shortened from the Old English compound 'on bæcweard' ('toward the back'), formed from 'bæc' (back) and the directional suffix '-weard'.