Downwards Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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downwards
[ˈdaʊnwərdz ]
Definitions
direction
Moving or pointing towards a lower place or position. In a downward direction.
Synonyms
down, southwards, towards the bottom.
Examples of usage
- The ball rolled downwards the hill.
- She looked downwards and saw her shoe untied.
position
Situated or moving from a higher to a lower position. Descending.
Synonyms
descending, falling, lowering.
Examples of usage
- The downwards movement of the elevator was smooth.
- He felt a downwards pressure on his shoulders.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Physics
- In physics, when an object moves downwards, it experiences the force of gravity pulling it toward the earth.
- Downward motion can be observed in water flowing from a height, creating a natural downward slope.
- Objects in a vacuum, like feathers or stones, fall downwards at the same rate due to gravity's constant pull.
Cultural References
- In literature, downward journeys often symbolize personal struggles or challenges faced by characters.
- Philosophers have used the concept of 'downward' as a metaphor for a decline in morals or societal values.
- In many cultures, looking downwards can signify respect or humility, showcasing a diverse range of meanings.
Psychology
- Research indicates that thinking about downward movements can evoke feelings of safety and calmness.
- When people feel downwards in mood, it can reflect a broader emotional state linked to life's challenges.
- Upward and downward movements in body language can influence how emotions are perceived during communication.
Navigation
- In terms of navigation and mapping, moving downwards often correlates with descending altitude, like going from a mountain to a valley.
- GPS devices use downwards measurements to help navigate roads and pathways accurately.
- In climbing, the concept of ‘downwards’ is crucial for ensuring safety while descending from high cliffs.
Origin of 'downwards'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from 'down' combined with the suffix '-wards,' which means direction.
- In Old English, 'dūn' meant 'hill' or 'mountain,' suggesting a movement away from height.
- The suffix '-wards' indicates direction, used in words like 'afterwards' or 'backwards,' showcasing its versatility.
The word 'downwards' is a combination of 'down' and 'ward', with the suffix '-s' added to indicate the direction. It has been used in English since the 14th century to describe the movement or position towards a lower place. The concept of moving downwards has been essential in various fields such as physics, mathematics, and everyday language.
See also: down, downcast, downsize, downsizing, downstairs, downward, downy.