-wards

American  

1. variant of -ward.

   towards; afterwards.

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-wards British  

suffix

1. indicating direction towards Compare -ward

   a step backwards

   to sail shorewards

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Spelling

See -ward.

Usage

What does -wards mean? The suffix -wards is used to mean "in the direction of," either in time or space. It is often used in everyday and technical terms.The form -wards comes from Old English -weardes, meaning “towards.”What are variants of -wards?The suffix -wards is more common in British English. In North American English, the variant -ward, as in toward, is more commonly used. Want to know more? Read our Words That Use article on -ward.

Etymology

Origin of -wards

Middle English; Old English -weardes, equivalent to -weard toward ( ward ) + -es -s ¹

Example Sentences

We went to sick call at the hospital, but the thermometer registered only 102 degrees, not enough to admit her to the wards.

From Literature

And earlier this month, First Minister John Swinney confirmed that a red alert had been issued for one of the wards at the hospital.

From BBC

Speaking to reporters after visiting the hospital, Majhi said the fire affected the trauma care ICU as well as an adjoining ICU and wards.

From BBC

The crisis has affected rubbish collection, emergency hospital wards, public transport and education.

From BBC

In March 2020, Michael and Rivka's mother, Milli, were admitted to different wards of the Royal Free hospital, in north London, with Covid symptoms - just as the first lockdown was announced.

From BBC