outer

adjective

out·​er ˈau̇-tər How to pronounce outer (audio)
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

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
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.
Thursday’s play may feel the effect of the outer band of the typhoon; the Thursday forecast calls for a chance of rain and gusty winds. Jenny Catlin, New York Times, 8 Oct. 2025 Ruston Kelly took his seat in the middle of the Bluebird Cafe, the tiny strip-mall bar-and-grill at the outer reaches of Nashville that serves as one of the most important proving grounds in the world of songwriting. Josh Crutchmer, Rolling Stone, 7 Oct. 2025 The shoes are identifiable thanks to a gold Rodo logo emblem located on the outer side of the sole of each heel. Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 7 Oct. 2025 Each one features a supportive inner pillow, soft outer pillow, and a 100% cotton percale cover—plus, a down alternative filling made from polyester microfiber. Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for outer

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from out entry 4 + -er entry 1

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of outer was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Outer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/outer. Accessed 10 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

outer

adjective
out·​er ˈau̇t-ər How to pronounce outer (audio)
1
: located on the outside or farther out
the outer wall
2
: being away from a center
the outer planets of the solar system

More from Merriam-Webster on outer

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