English Reference

Word

skyward

Phoneticssky·ward, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈskaɪwɝd/

UK/skˈaɪwəd/

Adverb of place

Definition

adv. moving or looking toward the sky. You use this to describe something that goes up or points up.

adv. directed or moving toward the sky or a higher position. Often describes physical movement or the trajectory of an object.

Examples

“The rocket shot skyward with a loud roar.”

“As the sun began to set, the birds took flight and soared skyward in a large, organized group.”

“The architect designed the skyscraper with sharp, vertical lines that draw the viewer's gaze skyward, emphasizing the building's immense height.”

Examples

simple

“The rocket shot skyward with a loud roar.”

contextual

“As the sun began to set, the birds took flight and soared skyward in a large, organized group.”

complex

“The architect designed the skyscraper with sharp, vertical lines that draw the viewer's gaze skyward, emphasizing the building's immense height.”

Collocations

Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “skyward” in context.

Verb

01. gaze skyward

“The crowd gathered in the square to gaze skyward at the passing comet.”

verb + adv

02. look skyward

“He looked skyward, hoping the dark clouds would not bring rain.”

verb + adv

03. point skyward

“The monument consists of a giant stone finger pointing skyward.”

verb + adv

04. shoot skyward

“The rocket ignited and began to shoot skyward at incredible speed.”

verb + adv

05. soar skyward

“The eagle spread its wings and began to soar skyward.”

verb + adv

06. spiral skyward

“Smoke from the campfire continued to spiral skyward through the trees.”

verb + adv

07. send prices skyward

“The sudden shortage of oil sent fuel prices skyward overnight.”

08. thrust a fist skyward

“The athlete thrust a fist skyward in a gesture of triumph.”

09. toss one's head skyward

“She tossed her head skyward and laughed at the absurdity of the situation.”

Usage

Can also function as an adjective when placed before a noun (e.g., 'a skyward glance').

Word family

ADVERB

skyward(B2)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Occasional
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference