backward

Definition

Indicating position or direction.

Etymology

From Middle English bakwarde, abakward, equivalent to back (adverb) + -ward. Cognate with Old Frisian bekward (“backward”).

Example Sentences

• "The silt collects in the backward part of the tank."
• "a backward tilt of the head"
• "The occasional apparent backward movement of planets is evidence that they revolve around the sun."