Definition

In a direction opposite to the way the hands of a clock move.

Example

The children were instructed to turn anticlockwise to follow the path.

Conversation

Did you notice how the hands on the clock move anticlockwise at times?

Yeah, it's kind of strange to see it that way.

I always thought it was just a design choice or something.

I guess it’s one of those quirky things about clocks!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Anticlockwise is formed from "anti-" (meaning against) and "clockwise" (from "clock" which comes from Old English "clocca", meaning bell, and "wise" meaning manner or direction). The term describes a direction that is against the usual movement of the hands of a clock.

Memory Tip

Think of moving 'against' ('anti-') the direction of a 'clock' — that's why anticlockwise means the opposite direction of how a clock moves.

Visually Confused Words