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:

Is backwards a word? Learn how to use backwards and backward with definitions and sentence examples at Writing Explained.

While technically backwards is interchangeable with backward, the overwhelmingly preferred spelling in the United States is backward, whether it is used as an adjective or an adverb.

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

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.

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.

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

Mar 13, 2026 · Adjective backward (comparative more backward, superlative most backward) Indicating position or direction. Situated toward or at the rear of something.

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.