How Do You Spell LEFTWARDS?

Pronunciation: [lˈɛftwədz] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "leftwards" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable "left" is pronounced as /lɛft/, which represents the phonemes /l/ and /ɛ/ in English. The suffix "-wards" is pronounced as /wərdz/, which includes the phonemes /w/, /ə/, /r/, /d/, and /z/. Thus, the complete phonetic transcription for "leftwards" is /lɛftwərdz/. This word means towards the left side, indicating the direction towards the left.

LEFTWARDS Meaning and Definition

1. Leftwards is an adverb that describes movement or direction towards the left side or in a leftward manner. It refers to the orientation or path that is closer to or aligns with the left side, typically in relation to a central point or reference. This term inherently implies a movement or position that opposes or contrasts with the right side.

   When used geographically, leftwards denotes a direction towards the left; for example, turning leftwards means turning in a leftward direction. Similarly, in a political context, leftwards refers to the ideology that emphasizes social equality, progressivism, or the adoption of liberal policies. It signifies a leaning or movement towards the political left of the spectrum.

   In terms of spatial orientation, leftwards describes a shift or transition to the left side. For instance, if an object moves leftwards, it means that it is shifting or heading towards the left side. This can be observed in various scenarios such as the movement of vehicles on a road, the motion of objects in space, or the flow of a fluid.

   In summary, leftwards is an adverb that denotes movement, direction, or orientation towards the left side or in a leftward manner, whether in a geographical, political, or spatial context.

Common Misspellings for LEFTWARDS

• leftwared
• leftwardd

Etymology of LEFTWARDS

The word "leftwards" is derived from the combination of two components: "left" and "-wards".

The term "left" comes from the Old English word "lyft", which means "weak" or "idle". In Old English, "lyft" was used to describe the left-hand side, as the left hand was considered weaker or less dominant compared to the right hand. Over time, "lyft" evolved into "left" and gained its contemporary meaning as the opposite of right.

The suffix "-wards" is an Old English adverbial suffix that signifies direction or destination. It is derived from the Old English word "weard", which means "toward" or "forwards". When added to "left", "-wards" completes the construction of "leftwards" and indicates movement or direction to the left.