backwards

Etymology 1

From backward + -s. See also -s (“used in the formation of certain adverbs: backwards, downwards, inwards, etc.”).

adj

1. Synonym of backward; see usage notes there.

Etymology 2

From Middle English bakwardis, bakwardis, a variant of Middle English bakwarde, bakward (“backward”). Equivalent to backward + -s. Compare Saterland Frisian bäkove (“backwards”).

adv

1. Synonym of backward; see usage notes there.
   The length of the stoppages could not well be reduced; indeed, they are already too short if we are to believe the tale now current of a wandering Jew sort of passenger—a lady of advanced years who can only alight from a train backwards. Every time she begins to get out a porter rushes up crying "Hurry up, ma'am; train's going!"—and pushes her in again! 1944 May and June, “When the Circle was Steam Operated”, in Railway Magazine, page 150