Definition of external
1a : capable of being perceived outwardly external signs of a diseaseb (1) : having merely the outward appearance of something : superficial (2) : not intrinsic or essential external circumstances
2a : of, relating to, or connected with the outside or an outer part the building's external featuresb : applied or applicable to the outside a lotion for external use
3a (1) : situated outside, apart, or beyond; specifically : situated near or toward the surface of the body (2) : arising or acting from outside an external forceb : of or relating to dealings or relationships with foreign countriesc : having existence independent of the mind external reality
People Are Reading
Examples of external in a Sentence
the external features of the building
the external signs of the disease
Origin and Etymology of external
Latin externus external, from exter — more at exterior
external
Definition of external
: something that is external: such asa : an outer partb : an external feature or aspect —usually used in plural
First Known Use of external
circa 1635
EXTERNAL Defined for English Language Learners
external
playDefinition of external for English Language Learners
-
: located, seen, or used on the outside or surface of something
-
: coming from outside
-
: existing or occurring outside your mind
EXTERNAL Defined for Kids
Medical Dictionary
external
playMedical Definition of external
1: capable of being perceived outwardly : bodily external signs of a disease
2a: situated at, on, or near the outside an external protective covering an external muscleb: directed toward the outside : having an outside object external perception eyesight and the other external sensesc: used by applying to the outside an external lotion
3a (1): situated near or toward the surface of the body; also : situated away from the mesial plane the external condyle of the humerus (2): arising or acting from outside : having an outside origin external causes external stimulib: of, relating to, or consisting of something outside the mind : having existence independent of the mind sensations aroused by external phenomena external reality
Learn More about external
-
See words that rhyme with external Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for external Spanish Central: Translation of external Nglish: Translation of external for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of external for Arabic speakers
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up external? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!