BACKWARD definition: toward the back or rear. See examples of backward used in a sentence.

backward adjective (OPPOSITE DIRECTION) toward the direction that is the opposite to the one in which you are facing:

Aug 5, 2025 · Understand the difference between “backward” and “backwards” and when to use each in American or British English for clear, correct writing.

Definition of backward adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

1. backward (s) and forward (s), in every detail; thoroughly. 2. bend, lean, or fall over backward, to exert oneself to the utmost; make a serious effort.

To summarize, backward is an adjective that characterizes something as reverse or regressive, whereas backwards is primarily used as an adverb to describe a motion done in reverse.

Feb 2, 2026 · Adjective backward (comparative more backward, superlative most backward) Indicating position or direction. Situated toward or at the rear of something.

The meaning of BACKWARD is toward the back or rear. How to use backward in a sentence.

Nov 25, 2025 · While their meanings are similar and both refer to something that is directed or moving toward the rear or behind, “backward” is generally preferred in American English, whereas …

If you do something backward, you do it in the opposite way to the usual way. He works backward, building a house from the top downward.