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Leftward: meaning, definitions and examples

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leftward

 

[ ˈlɛftwərd ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

directional movement

Leftward refers to a direction that is to or toward the left side. It is often used to describe the movement or orientation of an object or person when facing forward. This term can be applied in various contexts, such as navigation, spatial arrangements, or even abstract concepts like political leanings. In common usage, it indicates a leftwards path or trajectory.

Synonyms

left, to the left

Examples of usage

  • The car turned leftward at the intersection.
  • She gestured leftward to indicate where the library was.
  • The bird flew leftward as the storm approached.

Translations

Translations of the word "leftward" in other languages:

🇵🇹 à esquerda

🇮🇳 बाईं ओर

🇩🇪 nach links

🇮🇩 ke kiri

🇺🇦 вліво

🇵🇱 w lewo

🇯🇵 左に

🇫🇷 vers la gauche

🇪🇸 hacia la izquierda

🇹🇷 sola doğru

🇰🇷 왼쪽으로

🇸🇦 إلى اليسار

🇨🇿 doleva

🇸🇰 doľava

🇨🇳 向左

🇸🇮 v levo

🇮🇸 til vinstri

🇰🇿 солға

🇬🇪 მარცხნივ

🇦🇿 sola doğru

🇲🇽 hacia la izquierda

Etymology

The term 'leftward' originates from the Old English word 'lyft,' which means 'left' or 'on the left side.' It combines the root 'left' with the suffix '-ward,' which indicates direction. The suffix '-ward' is derived from the Old English '-weard,' meaning 'toward' or 'in the direction of.' The combination of these elements posits 'leftward' as describing a movement or orientation toward the left. The usage of the word can be traced back to at least the late 14th century, reflecting the directional nature inherent in human navigation and interaction with the world around them. Over centuries, it has been consistently used in both literal and metaphorical contexts, reinforcing its role in describing orientation in various disciplines including geography, politics, and personal conduct.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,424, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.