Definition

Directed or moving toward a lower place or position.

Example

The bird flew in a downward direction to catch its prey.

Conversation

Have you noticed how the path slopes downward toward the river?

Yeah, it makes the hike a bit challenging but fun!

I love how it seems to lead us downward into the forest.

Absolutely, it feels like an adventure with every step.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

In a direction toward a lower place or level.

Example

The bird flew downward from the tree branch.

Conversation

I noticed that the weather is getting cooler as we move downward in the season.

Yeah, it's definitely starting to feel like fall now.

I love how the leaves change colors when they fall downward from the trees.

Root Explanation

Downward → It is formed from "down" (from Old English "dūn", meaning from a higher place) and "-ward" (meaning in the direction of). The word "downward" means in the direction of down or towards a lower place.

Memory Tip

Think of moving 'from a higher place' ('down') 'in the direction of' ('-ward') — that's why downward means going down.

Visually Confused Words