Forward

Definition

Forward refers to movement or direction toward the front, or progress in time or development. It can also describe a person who is bold or assertive, or an action of sending something on to another recipient.

Parts of Speech

• Adverb
• Adjective
• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfɔːrwərd/
• Respelling: FOR-werd

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfɔː.wəd/
• Respelling: FAW-wəd

Etymology

The word "forward" originates from Old English "forweard," meaning "toward the front," derived from "for" (before) and "weard" (toward). It has retained its core meanings of progress and frontward motion throughout its evolution.

Derivatives

• Forwarding (noun/verb)
• Forwardness (noun)
• Forward-looking (adjective)
• Forwarder (noun)
• Forward-facing (adjective)

Synonyms

• Ahead
• Onward
• Progressive

Antonyms

• Backward
• Reverse
• Recede

Usage

The term "forward" is used in directional, progressive, and administrative contexts. For example, "She stepped forward to claim her prize," or "The email was forwarded to the team."

Related Terms

• Progress: Movement toward a goal.
• Advancement: Forward movement in rank, position, or time.
• Delivery: The act of sending or forwarding something.

Detailed Definitions

Adverb

• Toward the front: Indicates movement in a frontward direction.
  • Example: "The team moved forward with their plans."
• In a progressive or advanced manner: Refers to an improvement or progression.
  • Example: "The company is looking forward to new innovations."

Adjective

• Directed toward the front: Refers to a forward-facing position.
  • Example: "He took a forward stance in the debate."
• Bold or assertive: Describes a person or action that is confident or overbearing.
  • Example: "Her forward attitude impressed the interviewers."

Verb

• To send onward to another recipient: Refers to passing along correspondence or items.
  • Example: "Please forward the email to the manager."
• To advance or promote: Describes actions taken to improve or progress something.
  • Example: "The organization seeks to forward education for underprivileged children."

Noun

• A position in sports: Refers to an attacking player in certain sports like soccer or basketball.
  • Example: "The striker plays as a forward for the team."