inward
UK: ˈɪnwəd | US: ˈɪnwərd
adj. directed or moving toward the inside
adj. relating to the mind or spirit; internal
adv. toward the inside or center
The word "inward" combines the Old English prefix "in-" (meaning "inside" or "within") with the suffix "-ward" (derived from Old English "-weard," indicating direction). This structure logically reflects movement or orientation toward an interior space, whether physical ("inward flow") or metaphorical ("inward reflection"). The term has retained its directional and introspective connotations since its earliest usage.
She took an inward breath before speaking.
His inward focus made him seem distant.
The door swung inward with a creak.
Meditation encourages inward exploration.
The artist’s work reflects her inward struggles.