The word "outwards" refers to something moving or extending away from a point or a central location. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˈaʊtwərdz/. The first syllable "out" has a diphthong vowel sound /aʊ/ and is stressed, whereas the second syllable "wards" has a schwa vowel sound /ə/ and is unstressed. The letter "s" between the two syllables represents the plural suffix in this case. Overall, the spelling of "outwards" accurately reflects its pronunciation.
Outwards is an adverb that refers to the direction or movement away from a particular origin or point. It denotes the act of going or extending away from an internal or central location towards the exterior or outer side. In other words, it signifies outward or external movement or direction.
This term is frequently used to describe physical movements, such as when something moves or extends away from an interior or central position, often towards the surface, edge, or outside of an object. For instance, if a kid pushes a door outwards, it means they push the door away from themselves, causing it to open and create more space between them and the door.
The term "outwards" can also be used metaphorically to describe non-physical or abstract concepts. In this context, it refers to the expansion or growth of something beyond its initial state or boundaries. For example, if a company expands its market outwards, it means the company is venturing into new territories or reaching customers outside its current target market.
In summary, the term "outwards" is an adverb that denotes the direction of movement away from an internal or central position towards the exterior, and it can be applied to both physical and metaphorical situations.
To the outer parts; from the port of a country; seawards.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "outwards" is derived from the combination of two separate words: "out" and "ward".
Firstly, the word "out" comes from the Old English word "ūt", meaning "outside" or "beyond". This Old English term has Germanic origins and is related to words like Dutch "uit" and German "aus".
Secondly, the word "ward" comes from the Old English word "weard", which could mean "warden" or "guardian". It is connected to the idea of something moving or being directed in a specific direction.
Therefore, the combination of "out" and "ward" creates the word "outwards" which suggests moving or being directed towards the outside or beyond.