downward 1 of 2

as in bowed
directed down fishermen keep watch for the downward plunge of seabirds diving for food

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

downward

2 of 2

adverb

variants or downwards
as in down
toward or in a lower position at this point the river flows gently downward to the sea

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of downward
Adjective
Shepard, 50, posted an Instagram photo of Bell, 44, posing in a downward dog position wearing only a pair of bright blue knee-high socks in the backyard. Charna Flam, People.com, 16 July 2025 In the past few years, the city of Chicago has begun to reverse a downward population trend, with its population increasing in both 2023 and 2024. Molly Morrow, Chicago Tribune, 16 July 2025
Adverb
This works by applying friction to the back wheel equal to the amount of pressure applied downward. Bestreviews, Mercury News, 17 July 2025 The rental market is trending downward, especially in Central Florida around Orlando, Rojas said. Sarah Moreno july 14, Miami Herald, 14 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for downward
Recent Examples of Synonyms for downward
Adjective
  • The composer also added synths to his orchestral score, as well as bowed metal, where a violin bow is rubbed against metal instruments like a cowbell or a Vibraphone, for when Roz has a particularly intense feeling.
    Mia Galuppo, The Hollywood Reporter, 6 Jan. 2025
  • Jeremy Strong forwent a classic suit and tie in favor of a bowed necktie, giving his tailored look the perfect dash of whimsy.
    Christian Allaire, Vogue, 17 June 2024
Adverb
  • Add extra blankets and sheets made from feathers, down, or wool to trap heat.
    Alyssa Hui-Anderson, Verywell Health, 15 July 2025
  • This was down from 17,972 in the prior financial year, and below a forecast 16,800-17,200.
    Royston Wild, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Downward.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/downward. Accessed 30 Jul. 2025.

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