How to Pronounce Backward

To pronounce "backward", say BACKW-ard — 2 syllables, IPA /ˈbæk.wə(ɹ)d/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

backward

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Accent

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Speed

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2

Syllables

8

Letters

/ˈbæk.wə(ɹ)d/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “backward”

"backward" has 2 syllables: backw-ard.

What does backward mean?

noun

  1. The state behind or past.

adjective

  1. (of motion) In the direction towards the back.

    “They left without a backward glance.”

  2. (of motion) In the direction reverse of normal.

    “The occasional backward movement of planets is evidence they revolve around the sun.”

adverb

  1. (of motion) In the direction towards the back; backwards

    “to throw the arms backward”

  2. Toward, or in, past time or events; ago.

Synonyms

Third Worlddevelopingantediluvianantiquatedbackwardsparachronisticretrogradeforepast

Antonyms

First Worlddevelopedforwardprogressiveforwards

Related words

rearwardbackrearwardsretralreversedreverseretrogradeinverse

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "backward"?▾

"Backward" has 2 syllables: backw · ard.

What is the IPA transcription of "backward"?▾

The IPA transcription of "backward" is /ˈbæk.wə(ɹ)d/.

What does "backward" mean?▾

Backward: The state behind or past.

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