Rearwards Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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rearwards

[rɪəˈwɔːdz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

in motion

Moving or facing towards the rear; in a backward direction.

Synonyms

backward, backwards, behind, to the rear.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
rearwards	Primarily used in military or formal contexts to indicate movement towards the back. The troops marched rearwards to regroup. She directed the soldiers to move rearwards.
backward	Used to describe movement or facing towards the back. Can also imply regression or lack of progress, often with a negative connotation. He took a step backward to avoid the falling object. The company's policies seemed rather backward and outdated.
backwards	Commonly used in daily speech to describe movement in the opposite direction from forward. Slightly more colloquial than 'backward'. She walked backwards to keep an eye on the kids. He did a backwards somersault.
behind	Used to describe something or someone at the back of another thing or person. Common in everyday language. The cat is hiding behind the couch. He was standing behind me in line.
to the rear	Frequently used in formal contexts to indicate direction towards the back. The exit is to the rear of the building. They moved to the rear to avoid the crowd.

Examples of usage

He stepped rearwards to allow her to pass.
The car started to move rearwards.
She glanced rearwards over her shoulder.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

in time

Toward or into the past; back.

Synonyms

backwards, into the past, towards the past.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
rearwards	Used primarily in British English, 'rearwards' means towards the back or in a direction towards the rear. It's often used in formal or technical language. The troops moved rearwards to avoid the enemy fire. The car reversed rearwards into the parking spot.
backwards	This word is commonly used in everyday language to indicate movement in the direction opposite to forward. It can also mean regressing or moving to an earlier state. She took a step backwards to avoid the puddle. The policy changes seemed like a step backwards for the company.
into the past	Used to describe thinking or talking about past events or actions. It's often employed when reflecting on history or something that occurred earlier. He gazed out the window, his thoughts drifting into the past. Historians often delve into the past to understand current events.
towards the past	Similar to 'into the past', but usually indicates a sense of moving or looking in the direction of historical events or earlier times. It often implies a consideration of a specific period or a return to previous ways. Their research took them towards the past, uncovering ancient documents. The museum exhibit is designed to lead visitors towards the past.

Examples of usage

The film flashes forwards and rearwards in time.
She wished she could turn back the clock and go rearwards in time.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Linguistics

'Rearwards' is an adverb, illustrating how it modifies verbs by describing direction.
In grammar, adverbs like 'rearwards' often help add detail about how, when, or where an action occurs.
This word reflects a trend in English of combining words to create new ways to describe movement and orientation.

Cultural Usage

In storytelling, characters may move rearwards to indicate retreat or escaping from danger, often adding tension to narratives.
Movies often use camera angles that show characters moving rearwards for dramatic effect, helping viewers focus on emotional responses.
In many cultures, the idea of moving backwards can symbolize reflection or revisiting past experiences.

Psychology

Moving rearwards can be associated with feelings of hesitation or uncertainty, as people often feel less secure looking back.
Research in spatial awareness indicates that adults and children experience rearward movement differently, impacting their balance and coordination.
Psychologists have noted that individuals moving rearwards may feel a stronger connection to memories, as it metaphorically represents looking back.

Transportation

In the context of vehicles, 'rearwards' describes reversing motions, crucial for safe navigation and parking.
Many vehicles have rearview mirrors to help drivers see what’s behind them, making trips safer when moving rearwards.
Rearward movement is often necessary in transportation scenarios like loading or unloading cargo efficiently.

Origin of 'rearwards'

Main points about word origin

The word 'rearwards' combines 'rear,' meaning back, and the suffix '-wards,' which indicates direction.
The term has been used since the 19th century, primarily in British English, to describe motion towards the back.
Related terms include 'forwards,' which means moving towards the front, showing a sense of movement in opposite directions.

The word 'rearwards' is a combination of 'rear' and '-wards', where 'rear' means the back part of something and 'wards' indicates a direction. It has been in use since the mid-16th century to describe movement or position towards the back. Over time, it has been predominantly used in nautical and military contexts to denote a backward direction.