backward

[ bak-werd ]
/ ˈbæk wərd /

adverb Also back·wards.

adjective

Idioms for backward

    backward and forward, thoroughly: He knew his lesson backward and forward. Also backwards and forwards.

Origin of backward

First recorded in 1250–1300, backward is from the Middle English word bakwarde. See back1, -ward

OTHER WORDS FROM backward

back·ward·ly, adverb back·ward·ness, noun un·back·ward, adjective

Example sentences from the Web for backwards

British Dictionary definitions for backwards (1 of 2)

backwards

backward

/ (ˈbækwədz) /

adverb

British Dictionary definitions for backwards (2 of 2)

backward
/ (ˈbækwəd) /

adjective

(usually prenominal) directed towards the rear a backward glance
retarded in physical, material, or intellectual development backward countries; a backward child
  1. of or relating to the past; conservative or reactionary
  2. (in combination)backward-looking
reluctant or bashful a backward lover
chess (of a pawn) behind neighbouring pawns and unable to be supported by them

adverb

a variant of backwards

Derived forms of backward

backwardly, adverb backwardness, noun

Idioms and Phrases with backwards

backward