Rearward Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

⬅️

Add to dictionary

rearward

[ˈrɪəwərd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

in movement

Moving or facing towards the back or rear.

Synonyms

backward, backwards, behind.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
rearward	Redundant entry. Please refer to the first usage of 'rearward' listed above.
backward	Used to describe a direction towards the back. It can also have negative connotations when describing a backward society or person who is not progressive. He stumbled backward when he tripped over the rock The village is very backward in terms of technology and infrastructure
behind	Refers to a position at the back of something or someone. It can also imply being late or lagging in progress. He left his bag behind She was behind schedule with her work
backwards	Common in everyday speech to indicate moving in the direction opposite to forward. It's also used figuratively to describe something going in reverse or regressing. She walked backwards to see where she had come from This policy step is a move backwards in terms of human rights

Examples of usage

He stepped rearward, away from the edge of the cliff.
The soldiers retreated rearward to regroup.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

in position

Situated or positioned at or towards the back or rear.

Synonyms

back, hind, rear.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
rearward	Typically used in formal or military contexts to describe something situated or moving towards the back part of a formation or position. The rearward units were responsible for guarding the supplies. The captain ordered a rearward movement to regroup.
back	Commonly used in everyday language to refer to the rear or behind in a wide range of scenarios. Please move back a little to give everyone space. She hurt her back while lifting heavy boxes.
rear	Often used to describe the back part of something, such as a vehicle, building, or yard. The car was hit from the rear. They have a beautiful garden at the rear of their house.
hind	Typically used to refer to the back legs or feet of an animal. The horse's hind legs were strong and muscular. The dog injured its hind leg jumping over the fence.

Examples of usage

The rearward seat in the car provides a good view of the scenery.
She placed the rearward foot in a starting position.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Navigation

In navigation, 'rearward' helps indicate retreat or a backward movement, essential for both land and water travel.
Navigators use the term to describe positions relative to their current direction, emphasizing how orientation changes over time.
In aviation, pilots rely on rearward movements while landing to ensure proximity to runways.

Military

In military strategy, 'rearward' is crucial for maneuvers, indicating the back lines of an army where support and logistics are based.
Rearward positions serve as safe zones where reinforcements can regroup during retreats or attacks.
Military tactics often emphasize maintaining a strong rearward area to protect against surprise attacks.

Sports

In some sports, 'rearward' movements are important for defensive strategies, like backward sprints in basketball.
Athletes train to improve their rearward agility for better performance in their respective sports.
Certain exercises focus on strengthening the rearward muscles to enhance overall athletic capability.

Psychology

Research in psychology suggests that people often have a natural bias towards focusing on rearward experiences, like past memories.
The rearward reflection can impact decision-making, influencing how individuals weigh past experiences against current options.
Therapeutic practices sometimes emphasize the importance of reflecting on rearward thoughts to understand behaviors better.

Origin of 'rearward'

Main points about word origin

Originates from the Middle English word 'rerewarde', meaning the back or rear part.
The term is formed from 'rear', referring to something located behind, combined with 'ward', indicating direction.
Related to the Old English word 'rēar', which also means back or hindmost.

The word 'rearward' originated from Middle English 'rerewarde', which came from Old French 'reregarde', meaning 'rear guard'. It has been used since the 14th century to describe a position at or towards the back. Over time, it has evolved to be used in both adverbial and adjectival contexts to indicate a backward or rearward direction or position.