forward
UK: ˈfɔːwəd | US: ˈfɔːrwərd
adj. directed toward the front or future
adv. toward a place or position in front
vt. to send or dispatch (e.g., mail)
n. a player positioned near the opponent's goal in sports
The word "forward" combines the Old English root "for" (indicating position or time ahead) with the directional suffix "-ward." Originally used in spatial contexts (e.g., moving toward the front), it later expanded to abstract meanings like progress or future orientation. The verb form (to dispatch) emerged from the idea of sending something "ahead."
She took a step forward to greet the guests.
Please forward this email to the relevant team.
The forward player scored the winning goal.
His forward-thinking ideas impressed the committee.
The project is moving forward as planned.