Meaning of backward in English

1. Pronunciation

   /ˈbækwərd/

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   UK accent

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1. Classifying Adjective

   backward

   Definitions

   1. retarded in intellectual development

   Synonyms

   • retarded

2. Adverb

   backward

   Definitions

   1. at or to or toward the back or rear

   Examples

   • « he moved back »
   • « tripped when he stepped backward »
   • « she looked rearward out the window of the car »

   Antonyms

   • forward
   • forwards
   • frontward
   • frontwards
   • forrad
   • forrard
3. 2. in a manner or order or direction the reverse of normal

   Examples

   • « it's easy to get the 'i' and the 'e' backward in words like 'seize' and 'siege' »
   • « the child put her jersey on backward »
4. 3. in or to or toward a past time

   Examples

   • « set the clocks back an hour »
   • « never look back »
   • « lovers of the past looking fondly backward »

   Antonyms

   • ahead
   • forward
   • ahead
   • forward

5. Qualitative Adjective

   backward

   Etymology

   Middle English: from earlier abackward, from aback

   Definitions

   1. directed or facing toward the back or rear

   Examples

   • « a backward view »

   Synonyms

   • backswept
   • sweptback
   • cacuminal
   • retroflex
   • converse
   • reversed
   • transposed
   • inverse
   • reverse
   • negative
   • rearward
   • reverse
   • receding(a)
   • reflexive
   • self-referent
   • retracted
   • retral
   • retrograde
   • retroflex
   • retroflexed
   • returning(a)
   • reversive
   • regardant(ip)

   Antonyms

   • forward
6. 2. (used of temperament or behavior) marked by a retiring nature

   Examples

   • « a backward lover »

   Synonyms

   • bashful
   • blate

   Antonyms

   • forward

See also

• timid