for·ward / ˈfôrwərd/ • adv. (also for·wards) 1. toward the front; in the direction that one is facing or traveling: he started up the engine and the car moved forward | Lori leaned forward over the table. ∎  in, near, or toward the bow or nose of a ship or aircraft. ∎  in the normal order or sequence: the number was the same backward as forward.2. onward so as to make progress; toward a successful conclusion: there's no way forward for the relationship. ∎  into a position of prominence or notice: he is pushing forward a political ally.3. toward the future; ahead in time: from that day forward, the assembly was at odds with us. ∎  to an earlier time: the special issue has been moved forward to winter.• adj. 1. directed or facing toward the front or the direction that one is facing or traveling: forward flight the pilot's forward view. ∎  positioned near the enemy lines: troops moved to the forward areas. ∎  (in sports) moving toward the opponents' goal: a forward pass. ∎  in, near, or toward the bow or nose of a ship or aircraft. ∎ fig. moving or tending onwards to a successful conclusion: the decision is a forward step. ∎  Electr. (of a voltage applied to a semiconductor junction) in the direction that allows significant current to flow.2. relating to or concerned with the future: forward planning.3. (of a person) bold or familiar in manner, esp. in a presumptuous way.4. developing or acting earlier than expected or required; advanced or precocious: an alarmingly forward yet painfully vulnerable child. ∎  (of a plant or crop) well advanced or early. ∎  progressing toward or approaching maturity or completion.• n. 1. an attacking player in basketball, hockey, or other sports. ∎ Football an offensive or defensive lineman.2. (forwards) Finance short for forward contract.• v. [tr.] 1. send (a letter) on to a further destination: [as adj.] (forwarding) a forwarding address. ∎  hand over or send (an official document): their final report was forwarded to the Commanding Officer. ∎  dispatch (goods): [as adj.] (forwarding) a freight forwarding company. 2. help to advance (something); promote: the scientists are forwarding the development of biotechnology.DERIVATIVES: for·ward·ly adv.for·ward·ness n.

forward towards the future OE.; towards or to the front, onward XIV. OE. forweard, var. of forðweard onwards, continually, f. FORTH + -WARD.
Hence adj. in an advanced state or position; eagerly ready; pert XVI. Hence vb. help forward, advance XVI; send forward XVIII. So forwards XIV; cf. OE. forðweardes. See -WARDS.