Rear: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to refer to the back part of something, often used in formal contexts or when referring to large objects or vehicles.

• He placed the luggage in the rear of the car
• The house has a large garden at the rear

Commonly used to refer to the part of someone or something that is opposite the front, typically informal and versatile.

• She has a tattoo on her back
• Please sit at the back of the room

Used to refer to the very end of something, often colloquial and emphasizes the furthest point back.

• We caught the tail end of the concert
• The tail end of the project was finally completed

Often used in reference to the back legs of a four-legged animal; formal and somewhat technical.

• The horse injured its hind leg
• The animal’s hindquarters were strong and muscular

Use in formal contexts to refer to the back part of an object, vehicle, or structure.

• The car was hit from the rear.
• Please use the rear entrance.

Common and versatile word used to describe the part of a body, object, or space farthest from the front. It can be used in both formal and informal settings.

• She hurt her back while lifting the box.
• He sat at the back of the room.

Used both literally and figuratively to describe a position at or to the rear of something or someone. It can relate to physical location or to being late or delayed.

• The garden is behind the house.
• He was running behind schedule.

Informal term often used to refer specifically to the human buttocks. It may sometimes carry a humorous or less polite connotation.

• He slipped and landed on his backside.
• You need to get off your backside and help out.

Used to describe the back part of something or the position at the back of a group.

• The rear of the car was damaged in the accident
• The soldiers were instructed to secure the rear of the formation

Generally used to indicate that one person or thing is coming after another, either physically or metaphorically.

• Please follow me to your seat
• She tends to follow the latest fashion trends

Typically used in group activities or movements to describe someone or something that is in the last position, often suggesting responsibility for making sure that no one is left behind.

• In the hiking group, Tim was chosen to bring up the rear to ensure no one got lost
• She always brings up the rear during our morning runs