inner

adjective

in·​ner ˈi-nər How to pronounce inner (audio)
Synonyms of innernext
1
a
: situated farther in
the inner bark
b
: being near a center especially of influence
the inner circles of political power
2
a
: of or relating to the mind or spirit
the inner life
b
: existing as an often repressed part of one's psychological makeup
inner child
inner artist
inner noun
innerly adverb

Examples of inner in a Sentence

She led the guests to an inner room. the inner face of the arch the inner lining of the jacket listening to her inner voice
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Instead, there is an Inside Out vibe to Madly as the movie gives voice to the characters’ conflicting inner emotions that may or may not get in the way of the heart. Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 23 Dec. 2025 Carpet and Upholstery Did your little one get in touch with his inner Picasso all over your couch or rug? Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Dec. 2025 The subgenre is often marked by mental health struggles, self-destructive behavior, inner turmoil, unfulfilling or otherwise lacking relationships and an overall sense of melancholy. Lizz Schumer, PEOPLE, 22 Dec. 2025 Top 5 Can’t Miss Channel your inner flâneur (the French term for a leisurely stroller) along photogenic streets with buildings painted in a palette of pastels. Chrissie McClatchie, Travel + Leisure, 21 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for inner

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English innera, comparative of inne within

First Known Use

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of inner was before the 12th century

Cite this Entry

“Inner.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inner. Accessed 26 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

inner

adjective
in·​ner ˈin-ər How to pronounce inner (audio)
1
a
: situated farther in
inner room
b
: being near a center especially of influence
an inner circle of advisors
2
: of or relating to the mind or spirit
inner peace
innerly adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on inner

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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