Backward

/ˈbæk.wɚd/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Directed or facing toward the back or rear; toward the past.

He took a step backward to avoid the falling object.

Lacking progress or development; behind the times.

The town is often considered backward because it has not embraced modern technology.

In reverse order or direction.

She walked backward to give the camera a better view.

adverb

In a direction that is towards the back; in reverse.

She glanced backward before crossing the street.

In a backward, or less advanced manner.

The project was moving backward rather than forward.

Old English 'bæcweard', meaning 'toward the back'.

backward glance

A look over one’s shoulder to review what has happened.

think backward

To consider events or ideas in reverse order.

backward thinking

Thinking characterized by an outdated or less progressive approach.

back

The opposite side or direction from what is normal.

regress

To return to a previous, typically worse state.

retrograde

Moving backward; reverting to an earlier stage.

Outdated or uncool in opinions or fashion.

He's so backward; he still uses a flip phone.

Someone who is awkward or inept.

That guy is totally backward when it comes to social skills.