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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.
Factors Influencing Washing Frequency Material Type The outer and inner fabrics of your coat or jacket don't influence how frequently it should be washed but do make a huge difference in how the coat is cleaned. Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 9 Dec. 2025 Here, as in The Passenger, the author’s cinematic structure displays carefully calibrated shifts of perspective, as close-ups revealing the inner thoughts of the protagonists give way to long shots that vividly evoke the vibrant and often violent city that was Berlin. Literary Hub, 9 Dec. 2025 Your inner world is loud right now (dreams, instincts, anxieties), but your external reality won’t stop demanding your attention. Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 8 Dec. 2025 The character could also be viewed as a manifestation of his inner self, or however else any of you see him as. Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 8 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 11 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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