external

¹ex·ter·nal

adj \ek-ˈstər-n^əl\

Definition of EXTERNAL

1

a : capable of being perceived outwardly <external signs of a disease> b (1) : having merely the outward appearance of something : superficial (2) : not intrinsic or essential <external circumstances>

2

a : of, relating to, or connected with the outside or an outer part <the building's external features> b : applied or applicable to the outside <a lotion for external use>

3

a (1) : situated outside, apart, or beyond; specifically : situated near or toward the surface of the body (2) : arising or acting from outside <an external force> b : of or relating to dealings or relationships with foreign countries c : having existence independent of the mind <external reality>

— ex·ter·nal·ly \-n^əl-ē\ adverb

Examples of EXTERNAL

1. the external features of the building
2. the external signs of the disease

Origin of EXTERNAL

Latin externus external, from exter — more at exterior

First Known Use: 1542

Related to EXTERNAL

Synonyms: accidental, adventitious, alien, extraneous, extrinsic, foreign, supervenient

Antonyms: inherent, innate, intrinsic

Related Words: exterior, outside; immaterial, inapplicable, insignificant, irrelevant; nonessential, unessential, unnecessary

Near Antonyms: congenital, deep-seated, inborn, inbred; inside, interior, internal; basic, essential, necessary

see all synonyms and antonyms

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Rhymes with EXTERNAL

diurnal, eternal, fraternal, hibernal, infernal, internal, maternal, nocturnal, paternal, supernal