exterior

1 of 2

adjective

ex·​te·​ri·​or ek-ˈstir-ē-ər 

1

: being on an outside surface : situated on the outside

2

: observable by outward signs

His exterior quietness is belied by an occasional nervous twitch …

—Current Biography

3

: suitable for use on outside surfaces

exterior paint

exteriorly adverb

exterior

2 of 2

noun

1

a

: an exterior part or surface : outside

b

: outward manner or appearance

2

: a representation (as on stage or film) of an outdoor scene

also : a scene filmed outdoors

Synonyms of exterior

Adjective

• outer

Noun

• surface
• front

Examples of exterior in a Sentence

Adjective

the house's exterior walls badly need to be painted

Noun

The building has a rather plain exterior.

the exterior of the tooth consists of very hard enamel

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Major restorations followed in 1983–1984, when the interior was restored with historical decorations and plumbing and electrical systems were upgraded, and again in 2002 under former Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who updated both the interior and exterior while improving public accessibility. —Nandika Chatterjee, Time, 5 Nov. 2025

This lightweight puffy tote offers similar features for a low price of $33, including a laptop compartment, interior storage pockets, two exterior side pockets (perfect for a water bottle in one and an umbrella in the other), and comfortable shoulder straps. —Erin Cavoto, Travel + Leisure, 5 Nov. 2025

Noun

This sturdy boot's exterior is waterproof and designed to keep feet completely dry in rainy or snowy conditions, while the interior is lined with a soft, shearling-like wool blend that keeps feet snuggly warm. —Melony Forcier, Travel + Leisure, 7 Nov. 2025

The slip-ons also have the brand’s signature sheepskin lining and suede exterior. —Izzy Baskette, PEOPLE, 7 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Latin, comparative of exter, exterus being on the outside, foreign, from ex

First Known Use

Adjective

1528, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1591, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing exterior

• exterior angle
• exterior/outside door

Rhymes for exterior

• anterior
• inferior
• interior
• ulterior

Kids Definition

exterior

1 of 2 adjective

ex·​te·​ri·​or ek-ˈstir-ē-ər 

1

: situated on the outside

2

: external entry 1 sense 1

3

: suitable for use on outside surfaces

exterior paint

exteriorly adverb

exterior

2 of 2 noun

1

: an exterior part or surface : outside

2

: visible manner or appearance

a calm exterior

Medical Definition

exterior

adjective

ex·​te·​ri·​or ek-ˈstir-ē-ər 

: being on an outside surface : situated on the outside

exteriorly adverb