How Do You Spell REARWARDS?

Pronunciation: [ɹˈi͡əwədz] (IPA)

The word 'rearwards' is commonly spelled with an -s, although some may argue that 'rearward' with no -s is the more traditional spelling. The pronunciation of the word is [rɪə(r)wə(r)dz], with stress on the second syllable. The spelling of the -s at the end reflects the historical development of the word; it is a combination of 'rearward' and the Old English suffix -weard, meaning 'toward'. The addition of the -s represents the shift from Old English to Middle English.

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REARWARDS Meaning and Definition

  1. Rearwards, often used as an adverb, is the opposite direction or position from which a person or an object is currently facing or situated. It refers to moving or being positioned towards the rear or back of something. The term is formed by combining the word "rear," which denotes the back or behind part of an entity, and the suffix "-wards," indicating movement in a particular direction.

    In a literal sense, "rearwards" can describe the act of physically moving or turning toward the back of an object or a space. For instance, a person walking rearwards is moving in the opposite direction they were originally facing, with their back leading the way. Similarly, a car reversing rearwards is moving backward with its rear end in front.

    Figuratively, "rearwards" can also pertain to a sense of regressing or going back in time or progress. For instance, if someone suggests taking a rearwards step in a project, it means going back to a previous phase or a less advanced stage. In this sense, "rearwards" reflects a direction towards an earlier or less developed state.

    Overall, "rearwards" is a versatile term indicating movement, positioning, or regression towards the back or in the opposite direction.

Common Misspellings for REARWARDS

Etymology of REARWARDS

The word "rearwards" is formed by adding the suffix "-wards" to the word "rear". The term "rear" originally comes from the Middle English word "rouer" or "rere", which meant the back part of something. It can be traced back to the Old English word "hrēr", meaning the hindmost part or to move or rise up. The suffix "-wards" is derived from the Old English "-weard", indicating direction or movement. When combined, "rearwards" signifies movement or direction toward the back or rear part of something.

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Correct spelling for rearwards
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