rearward

Etymology

rear +‎ -ward

Pronunciation

• (US) IPA^(key): /ˈɹiɹ.wɝ d/

Noun

rearward (plural rearwards)

1. The part that comes last or is situated in the rear; conclusion; wind-up.
   • 1599, William Shakespeare, Much Ado About Nothing, Act 4 Scene 1

     Do not live, Hero; do not ope thine eyes;

     For, did I think thou wouldst not quickly die,

     Thought I thy spirits were stronger than thy shames,

     Myself would, on the rearward of reproaches,

     Strike at thy life.

2. The last troop; the rear of an army; a rear guard.

   (Can we find and add a quotation of Shakespeare to this entry?)

Adjective

rearward (comparative more rearward, superlative most rearward)

1. Toward the back or rear of something.

   The rearward seats of the bus were unpleasantly close to the toilet facilities.

Adverb

rearward (comparative more rearward, superlative most rearward)

1. Toward the back or rear of something.

   She stumbled rearward through the bus, hoping to make it to the toilet before she caused a mess.