achter

adjective

ach·​ter

variants or agter

ˈäḵ-tər

Africa

: rear, hindmost

—often used in combination

achter-oxen

Word History

Etymology

obsolete Afrikaans achter- (as in achterveld interior, backcountry—now agter, agterveld), from achter, adverb, behind, after; akin to Old English æfter

First Known Use

1880, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now