The word "upwards" is spelled with a silent "w" between "up" and "ward." Its phonetic transcription in IPA symbols is /ˈʌpwərdz/. The first syllable is pronounced with the short "u" sound as in "sun," while the second syllable has the schwa sound as in "a" in "sofa." The "w" is not pronounced, but serves to indicate the direction of movement or progress. "Upwards" means moving or tending in the direction of a higher point or degree, or toward a better condition.
Upwards is an adverb that describes movement or position towards a higher or more elevated place or direction. It suggests a vertical orientation or progression in an ascending manner. When used to describe direction, it indicates movement or growth in an upward trajectory.
Additionally, upwards can also denote an increase in quantity, extent, or degree. It signifies a rise or enhancement in numerical, spatial, or qualitative aspects. It is often employed to convey a sense of progress, improvement, or advancement.
This term can be seen in physical contexts, such as when objects are lifted or raised vertically. It is frequently used to depict the action of moving upwards, as in climbing stairs, mountains, or trees. In figurative senses, it signifies advancement, success, or achievement in various domains, including career, personal development, or social status.
In a spatial context, upwards indicates a higher position in relation to a reference point. For example, when giving directions, upwards signifies traveling towards a location that is situated at a higher elevation. It is commonly used when discussing geographic features like hills, mountains, or plateaus.
Overall, upwards reflects a vertical movement or orientation towards a higher position, an increase in extent or quantity, and advancement or progress in various domains.
Opposed to downwards.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word upwards originated in Middle English as upward, which was derived from the Old English word upweard. Upweard is a combination of the prefix up, indicating direction or higher position, and the suffix -weard, meaning towards or in the direction of. Therefore, upwards essentially means in the direction of higher position or elevation.