English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
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.
"Turn the arrow downwards to open the menu."

How to use downwards

Learner’s notes

In 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

Word forms

more downwards comparative, most downwards superlative

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “downwards” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Turn the arrow _____ to open the menu.

Etymology

From down + -wards.

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.

People also searched

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial · etymology from Wiktionary