rightfacing

Rightfacing, often written as right-facing, is an adjective describing something oriented toward the right side from a given reference point. It is used to indicate directionality where the subject faces or points to the observer’s right or to the right-hand side of a frame. The term is commonly paired with left-facing to describe opposite orientations or mirrored configurations.

In archaeology and art history, right-facing describes figures, deities, or scenes that face to the right on monuments, reliefs, or inscriptions. This orientation helps scholars analyze composition, symbolism, and the relationships between figures within a work, and it is often used alongside left-facing as a descriptive tool for iconographic studies.

In animation, game design, and user interfaces, right-facing denotes the default direction a character or symbol faces. Many 2D sprites are designed to face right and can be mirrored to face left, facilitating efficient animation and asset reuse. Right-facing icons, arrows, and indicators commonly signal forward movement, progression, or next steps in a sequence.

In signage and graphic design, right-facing arrows or chevrons convey direction or emphasis toward the right. The direction of facing can influence interpretation, such as guiding a viewer’s eye or implying continuity in a layout.

Etymology notes that the term is a straightforward compound of right and facing, with English usage dating to the 19th century in various descriptive contexts. Related concepts include left-facing, front-facing, and mirrored imagery. See also orientation and symmetry.