on the outside

idiom

1
: on the outer side, edge, or surface of something
The number 22 car tried to pass the leader on the outside (of the track).
2
baseball : on the side of home plate farthest from the batter
The next pitch was a fastball on the outside.
3
used to describe someone's appearance
I might seem calm on the outside, but I'm actually really nervous.
4
: not in prison
He looked forward to life on the outside again.

Examples of on the outside in a Sentence

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.
Iowa State researchers said spraying pyrethroid insecticides, such as Permethrin or Esfenvalerate, on the outside of buildings when the beetles appear may help prevent pest entry, especially for large infestations. Jalen Williams, Freep.com, 27 Oct. 2025 And a fast receiver got loose on the outside. Kansas City Star, 26 Oct. 2025 Add in Daniels’ injuries, and the Commanders are likely on the outside looking in when the postseason starts. Jeff Howe, New York Times, 25 Oct. 2025 Add the scotch and Calvados and some crushed ice, and stir about 10 to 15 seconds, until a small frost begins to show on the outside of the mug. Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 25 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for on the outside

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“On the outside.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/on%20the%20outside. Accessed 31 Oct. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!