adv
Uncommon
downwards
DOWN-wuhdz
Downwards (adv) means Toward a lower place or position; downward. Example: “Turn the arrow downwards to open the menu.”
adv
1
Toward a lower place or position; downward.
"Gravity pulls everything downwards."
"Turn the arrow downwards to open the menu."
How to use downwards
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSame meaning as "downward" — mainly a British spelling preference for the adverb.
UK vs US
British English favours "downwards" as the adverb; American English generally uses "downward" for both adjective and adverb.
Easily confused with
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more downwards
- Superlative
- most downwards
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Turn the arrow _____ to open the menu.
Etymology
Formed from down and -wards.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “downwards” mean?
The word “downwards” means toward a lower place or position; downward. In plain terms, same meaning as "downward" — mainly a British spelling preference for the adverb.
How do you pronounce “downwards”?
“Downwards” is pronounced DOWN-wuhdz (/ˈdaʊnwɚdz/ in IPA).
How do you use “downwards” in a sentence?
Here is “downwards” used in a sentence: “Turn the arrow downwards to open the menu.”
What is another word for “downwards”?
Words with a similar meaning to “downwards” include downward and down.
What is the opposite of “downwards”?
The opposite of “downwards” — its antonyms — are up and upwards.
What part of speech is “downwards”?
“Downwards” is an adverb.
Is “downwards” a common word?
“Downwards” is an uncommon word in modern English.
