outer

adjective

out·​er ˈau̇-tər 

1

: existing independent of mind : objective

outer reality

2

a

: situated farther out

the outer limits

b

: being away from a center

the planet's outer rings

c

: situated or belonging on the outside

an outer covering

Synonyms

• exterior
• outward

Examples of outer in a Sentence

the outer edges of the roof

The package's outer covering was damaged.

I removed the outer skin of the onion.

Her inner turmoil was masked by an outer calm.

Recent Examples on the Web

According to results from a Sunday procedure to have skin lesions removed, doctors found squamous cell carcinoma, which starts in cells in the middle and outer layers of the skin. —Michael Rios, CNN Money, 17 Sep. 2025

The outer display is surprisingly practical for quick texts or checking updates without needing the main screen. —PC Magazine, 17 Sep. 2025

Instead her mind is split into two alternate personalities with no control over each other’s inner or outer lives. —Pam Kragen, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 Sep. 2025

Get your glow back New from Dr Somji Skincare is the Exosome Barrier Repair Serum which has a lightweight formula to nourish, protect and reinforce the skin’s natural barrier—the protective outer layer that keeps moisture in and irritants out. —Angelina Villa-Clarke, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from out entry 4 + -er entry 1

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing outer

• come-outer
• down-and-outer
• out-and-outer
• outer ear
• outer planet
• outer space

Rhymes for outer

• doubter
• lauter
• stouter

Kids Definition

outer

adjective

out·​er ˈau̇t-ər 

1

: located on the outside or farther out

the outer wall

2

: being away from a center

the outer planets of the solar system