outwards
UK: ˈaʊtwədz | US: ˈaʊtwərdz
adv. away from the center or a particular point; toward the outside
adv. in an external direction or manner
The word "outwards" combines "out," derived from Old English "ūt" (meaning "away from"), with the directional suffix "-wards," from Old English "-weard" (indicating direction or tendency). This construction follows a common pattern in English where "-wards" is added to adverbs or prepositions to form directional terms (e.g., "inwards," "upwards"). The word has retained its core meaning of "moving or facing away from a center" since its Middle English usage.
The branches grew outwards, reaching toward the sunlight.
She turned her palms outwards to show they were empty.
The explosion sent debris flying outwards in all directions.
The door opens outwards, so be careful when stepping back.
His thoughts gradually shifted outwards, focusing less on himself.