against

In a contrary direction to.

It is hard work to swim against the current.

In physical opposition to; in collision with.

The rain pounds against the window.

Ivor had acquired more than a mile of fishing rights with the house ; he was not at all a good fisherman, but one must do something ; one generally, however, banged a ball with a squash-racket against a wall.

In physical contact with, so as to abut or be supported by.

The ladder was leaning against the wall.

The puppy rested its head against a paw.

Close to, alongside.

A row of trees stood against a fence.

We expressed our readiness, and in ten minutes were in the station wagon, rolling rapidly down the long drive, for it was then after nine.[…]As we reached the lodge we heard the whistle, and we backed up against one side of the platform as the train pulled up at the other.

In front of; before (a background).

The giant was silhouetted against the door.

By the time that (something happened); before.

Thence she them brought into a stately Hall, / Wherein were many tables faire dispred, / And ready dight with drapets festiuall, / Against the viaundes should be ministred.

He now gave Mrs Deborah positive orders to take the child to her own bed, and to call up a maid-servant to provide it pap, and other things, against it waked.