backword

English

Etymology

back +‎ word

Noun

backword (plural backwords)

1. A contention, retort, or reply.
2. A contradiction or answer to put off an engagement; a countermand.
   • 2020, Hilary Mantel, The Mirror and the Light, Fourth Estate, page 840:

     Richard has compounded with some Italians to paint a mural of his triumph [...] The time may come when the scene is bitter in his eyes, but he should paint it anyway. He should not give backword to the Italians — it is how they get their living.

3. A section of commentary at the end of a book.

See also

• foreword