[back.ward] or back.wards adv (14c) 1 a: toward the back b: with the back foremost
2. a: in a reverse or contrary direction or way b: toward the past c: toward a worse state -- bend over backward or lean over backward : to make extreme efforts (as at concession)
[2]backward adj (14c) 1 a: directed or turned backward b: done or executed backward
2: diffident, shy
3: retarded in development -- back.ward.ly adv -- back.ward.ness n [3]backward n (1610): the part behind or past