What does outwards mean?
“Outwards” is an adverb meaning away from a central point or toward the outside. It commonly describes movement, extension, growth, or orientation: a path may lead outwards from a town, a branch may spread outwards, or someone may reach outwards for help. The word can suggest more than simple physical direction. For example, describing a discussion as moving outwards may imply that ideas or participation are expanding beyond a limited group. “Outwards” is especially frequent in British English, though it is also standard in American English. It differs from the related adjective “outward,” which more typically describes something directed or oriented away from a centre, such as outward movement, an outward glance, or outward-facing policy. In everyday and formal writing alike, “outwards” is a clear and idiomatic way to express direction away from an origin or toward an exterior.
adverbAway from a central point, person, or place; toward the exterior. It is especially used to describe movement or orientation directed away from something.
- In a direction away from a centre, starting point, or interior.
- Toward the exterior, outer edge, or outside area.
"The hikers walked outwards from the village toward the coast."
"The branches spread outwards and eventually reached the fence."
"She extended her hand outwards, but no one took it."
“Outwards” carries a double meaning: it can describe movement away from a centre, while also suggesting that something is expanding or opening up.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does outwards come from?
The word is formed from the adverb “out” and the suffix-like element “-wards,” which gives the meaning “in the direction of.” The related form “outward” developed as an adjective and adverb, while the longer “outwards” became especially common in British English. Both forms continue the older Germanic directional pattern seen in related words such as “inward” and “inwards.”
Related word forms
How outwards is actually used
Common in British English and also used in American English, especially with directional verbs such as move, stretch, reach, and point. “Outward” is more often used as an adjective, although it can also be used adverbially in formal usage.
Easily confused with outwards
“Outwards” is generally an adverb describing direction, while “outward” is commonly an adjective describing orientation, appearance, or movement.