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 of outer

• 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

The outer fabric is slash-proof, and all of the zippers lock together or tuck away to prevent quick hands from getting to your valuables. — Taylor Fox, Travel + Leisure, 22 June 2026

This results in the outer layers of the star where nuclear fusion is still occurring, puffing out and expanding the star's radius to as much as 100 times its original size. — Robert Lea, Space.com, 22 June 2026

Yasuda uses a pastel lavender as the focal point and adds a dark purple around the outer edges for a striking contrast that’s really pretty. — Morgan Fargo, Vogue, 22 June 2026

This quilt set will keep you cool for the rest of the summer, thanks to a 100% cotton outer shell. — Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 June 2026

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