skyward
UK: ˈskaɪwəd | US: ˈskaɪwərd
adj. directed toward the sky
adv. in the direction of the sky
The word "skyward" combines "sky," derived from Old Norse "ský" (cloud, sky), with the suffix "-ward," from Old English "-weard" (indicating direction). The morpheme "-ward" is a productive suffix in English, often attached to nouns to form adjectives or adverbs denoting direction (e.g., "homeward," "seaward"). The compound logically conveys movement or orientation toward the sky, reflecting its straightforward morphological construction.
The balloon floated skyward, disappearing into the clouds.
She tilted her head skyward to admire the stars.
The rocket accelerated skyward with a thunderous roar.
Birds soared skyward as the sun rose.
He pointed skyward, drawing attention to the passing airplane.