backwards

back-wards · adverb

imported

Definitions

adverb

  1. 1.

    Toward the back or rear; in the direction of one's back.

  2. 2.

    In reverse order or direction.

  3. 3.

    Toward a worse state; into the past.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    bend over backwards — To try very hard to help or please someone.
  • •
    know something backwards and forwards — To know something thoroughly.
  • •
    backwards and forwards — Alternating between two states; also, thoroughly.
  • •
    lean over backwards — Same as bend over backwards.

Related words

Antonyms: forward, forwards
See also: backward, forwards, reverse
Synonyms: back, in reverse, rearward

Etymology

From Old English bæcweardes, from bæc ("back") + -weardes (adverbial directional suffix).