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Definition of rearward

rearward

/ˈrɪr.wɚd/
rear · ward
Plural:rearwards
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rearward Lexical Profile

rearward Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Directed, moving, or situated toward the back or rear.

Example

"The driver checked the rearward camera before backing into the narrow parking space."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• adverb

1

Toward or at the back; backward.

Example

"She glanced rearward to make sure the rest of the hiking group was keeping pace."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• noun

1

The rear part, position, or area; in historical usage, the rearguard of a marching force.

Example

"The supply wagons were positioned to the rearward of the main column during the expedition."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

rearrange
rearrangement
rearrest
rearward
reascend
reason
reasonability

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English as 'rereward', combining 'rear' (from Anglo-French 'rere', ultimately from Latin 'retro' meaning 'back') with the directional suffix '-ward' (from Old English '-weard').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Rearward. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/rearward
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