backwardmost

Adjective

backward (comparative more backward, superlative most backward)

1. Situated toward or at the rear of something.
   • The silt collects in the backward part of the tank.

   Synonyms:

   hindwards, rearward, retrograde

2. Acting or moving in the direction opposite to that in which someone or something is facing.
   • a backward tilt of the head
3. Acting or moving in the direction opposite to the usual direction of movement.
   • The occasional apparent backward movement of planets is evidence that they revolve around the sun.

   Synonyms:

   retrograde, contrariwise

4. (figuratively) Acting or moving oppositely to the desired direction of progress.
   • This is a backward step for the country.
5. Reversed in order or sequence.
   • This backward writing is hard to read.

   Synonyms:

   mirror image, switched, back to front

6. (figuratively) Retarded in development; not as advanced as would be expected.
   • The child is backward in his school work.

See all 27 meanings of backward