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

Those outer leaves have the most contact with soil, handling and other surfaces. — Olivia Laborde, AJC.com, 21 July 2026

The Port of Helsinki lists tram 6 as the public transit connection from the district, although passengers at the outer cruise berths should expect a 20 minute walk before reaching the stop. — David Nikel, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026

For the first time, astronomers have reconstructed the magnetic field of an entire cluster of galaxies, from its central nucleus to its outer limits. — Robert Lea, Space.com, 21 July 2026

The color was also gently smudged below her lower lashes, winging ever so faintly upward at the outer corner. — Marci Robin, Allure, 20 July 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