rearward

rear +‎ -ward

• (US) IPA^(key): /ˈɹiɹ.wɝ d/

rearward (plural rearwards)

1. The part that comes last or is situated in the rear; conclusion; wind-up.
   • 1599, William Shakespeare, Much Ado About Nothing, Act 4 Scene 1

     Do not live, Hero; do not ope thine eyes;

     For, did I think thou wouldst not quickly die,

     Thought I thy spirits were stronger than thy shames,

     Myself would, on the rearward of reproaches,

     Strike at thy life.

2. The last troop; the rear of an army; a rear guard.

   (Can we find and add a quotation of Shakespeare to this entry?)

rearward (comparative more rearward, superlative most rearward)

1. Toward the back or rear of something.

   The rearward seats of the bus were unpleasantly close to the toilet facilities.

rearward

1. Toward the back or rear of something.
   • 1991, Peter Cozzens, Better Place to Die: The Battle of Stones River (page 124)

     The ensuing struggle was bitter but brief, as for a third time the Alabamians stumbled rearward through the cedars. If Manigault were to take the guns, he would need help.