Behind

Definition

Behind is used as a preposition, adverb, and noun. As a preposition, it means at the back of or in a place or position further back than someone or something else. As an adverb, it indicates that something is in a position that is at the rear. As a noun, it can informally refer to the buttocks.

Parts of Speech

• Preposition
• Adverb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /bɪˈhaɪnd/
• Respelling: bih-HIND

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /bɪˈhaɪnd/
• Respelling: bih-HIND

Etymology

The word "behind" originated from the Old English "behindan," meaning "at the back of" or "in the rear of." The prefix "be-" and the root "hindan" indicate a position in the back or toward the rear. The term has been used since the 10th century to describe positions and places further back.

Derivatives

• Behindhand (adjective)
• Beholden (adjective)
• Left behind (phrase)
• Fall behind (phrase)
• Get behind (phrase)

Synonyms

• After
• Following
• Rearward

Antonyms

• In front
• Ahead
• Before

Usage

The term "behind" is often used to describe positions or locations that are at the rear or following something else. For example, "He stood behind her in line," or "They were left behind during the evacuation."

Related Terms

• Rear: The back part of something.
• Following: Coming after or next in sequence.
• Backward: Directed or facing toward the back or rear.

Detailed Definitions

Preposition

• At the back of or in the rear of something or someone: Indicates a position further back relative to another object or person.
  • Example: "The dog is sitting behind the couch."
• Following in order or position: Refers to something or someone that comes after another.
  • Example: "She stood behind her brother in the queue."

Adverb

• In or to the rear of: Used to indicate something positioned toward the back.
  • Example: "The car left a trail of dust behind as it sped away."

Noun (informal)

• The buttocks: A colloquial term referring to the human posterior.
  • Example: "She fell and landed on her behind."