adverb
backwards, in reverse
B1
An adverb meaning 'backwards' or 'in reverse', used to describe movement or order (e.g., rückwärts gehen, fahren). Not a verb. Common in commands and descriptions: walk backwards, read in reverse. No inflection; placement varies (often after verb or as adjunct).
Examples
Während das Auto rückwärts fuhr, erkannte die Fahrerin, dass der Anhänger nicht richtig angekuppelt war.
While the car was reversing, the driver realized that the trailer was not properly hitched.
Er ging rückwärts aus dem Raum, um niemanden zu stoßen.
He walked backwards out of the room so he wouldn't bump into anyone.
Die Kamera fährt rückwärts, um den ganzen Saal zu zeigen.
The camera moves in reverse to show the whole hall.
Details
Mnemonics
Picture someone walking backwards out of a doorway, slowly stepping 'rückwärts' to avoid bumping into people.
Sounds like 'rook-wards' — imagine a rook (bird) moving backward.
Notes
Used to describe motion or figurative reversal (e.g., working backwards through a problem).