outer

adjective

out·​er ˈau̇-tər 

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

Synonyms of outer

• exterior
• outward

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

Jegede said most root vegetables like potatoes and carrots, along with any fruit that has an outer layer, can be washed to remove potential contaminants, even if they were covered in ash. — Christopher Buchanan, Los Angeles Times, 8 July 2026

As satellite arrays became larger and more efficient, and electronics more sophisticated, orbital nuclear power systems were largely confined to exploration missions to the outer Solar System by the 1990s. — David Szondy july 07, New Atlas, 8 July 2026

That would give the planet more time to drift outward as the dying sun sheds its outer layers into space, potentially avoiding engulfment altogether. — Sharmila Kuthunur, Space.com, 8 July 2026

Drivers traveling south from Ouray to Silverton, will be on the steep outer side of the highway, while those driving north from Silverton to Ouray will hug the inside of the cliff face. — Evie Carrick, Travel + Leisure, 7 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing outer

• come-outer
• down-and-outer
• out-and-outer
• outer ear
• outer planet
• outer space

Rhymes for outer

• doubter
• lauter
• stouter

Kids Definition

outer

adjective

out·​er ˈau̇t-ər 

1

: located on the outside or farther out

the outer wall

2

: being away from a center

the outer planets of the solar system