Backward

Part of speech: noun (n.)

The state behind or past. [Obs.] In the dark backward and abysm of time. Shak.

Part of speech: verb (v.)

To keep back; to hinder. [Obs.]

Part of speech: adjective (a.)

1. Directed to the back or rear; as, backward glances.

2. Unwilling; averse; reluctant; hesitating; loath. For wiser brutes were backward to be slaves. Pope.

3. Not well advanced in learning; not quick of apprehension; dull; inapt; as, a backward child. "The backward learner." South.

4. Late or behindhand; as, a backward season.

5. Not advanced in civilization; undeveloped; as, the country or region is in a backward state.

6. Already past or gone; bygone. [R.] And flies unconscious o'er each backward year. Byron.