rearward

[ reer-werd reer-wawrd ]

adverb

1. Also rearwards. toward or in the rear.

adjective

1. located in, near, or toward the rear.
2. directed toward the rear.

noun

1. a position at the rear:

   in the rearward of fashion.

2. Obsolete, rere·ward. the rear division of a military unit; rear guard.

rearward

/ ˈrɪəwəd /

adjective

1. towards or in the rear Also (for adverb only)rearwards

noun

1. a position in the rear, esp the rear division of a military formation

Other Words From

• rearward·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of rearward¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English rerewarde, from Anglo-French. See rear ¹, -ward

Word History and Origins

Origin of rearward¹

C14 (as a noun: the part of an army positioned behind the main body of troops): from Anglo-French rerewarde , variant of reregarde ; see rearguard

Example Sentences

Practically, there is no noticeable rearward pushback [because] the weight of the gun slows [it] down.

From The Daily Beast

Here was such natural cover as a man would be likely to seek in working his way surreptitiously rearward.

From Project Gutenberg

He moved on without further word, and Kentucky continued his rearward journey.

From Project Gutenberg

The French position about Sedan was covered to rearward by the fortress.

From Project Gutenberg

The 12th Division was encamped at Fontenay and rearward as far as Chtenay.

From Project Gutenberg

Between them is the loveliest little bay; and behind them green wooded slopes rise toward the rearward mountain of the Souffrière.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• rearwards