This is the 7924th most frequent German word.
hinterher
"Behind," "afterwards," or "later" depending on context.
Here, 'hinterher' is used to describe physically chasing or following something behind.
Ich rannte dem Ball hinterher.
I ran after the ball.
In this case, 'hinterher' implies watching or following with one's gaze someone departing.
Sie schaute ihm traurig hinterher.
She watched him sadly as he went away.
Here, 'hinterher' represents the act of catching up or compensating for something later.