inwardly

adverb

in·​ward·​ly ˈin-wərd-lē 

1

: in the innermost being : mentally, spiritually

2

a

: beneath the surface : internally

bled inwardly

b

: to oneself : privately

cursed inwardly

Examples of inwardly in a Sentence

She was outwardly calm but inwardly nervous.

Recent Examples on the Web

Charleigh inwardly winced and froze in place, hand still on the knob. — Lizz Schumer, PEOPLE, 20 Jan. 2026

Now, others rooting for a crash weren’t as inwardly focused. — Jonathan Lansner, Oc Register, 11 Mar. 2026

Engage your lower abs, draw your kneecaps toward your thighs, and inwardly rotate your thighs. — Kate Pitts, Outside, 30 Sep. 2025

These numbers suggest that many leaders may have all the outward signs of success, yet inwardly struggle. — Stephanie Camarillo, Forbes.com, 3 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

inwardly

adverb

in·​ward·​ly ˈin-wərd-lē 

1

: in the mind or spirit

2

a

: on the inside

bled inwardly

b

: to oneself : privately

chuckled inwardly