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

Over the coming months, avionics, scientific instruments and thermal insulation will gradually transform the frame into the flying science laboratory destined for the outer solar system. — Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026

However, the inner (dentine) layer of these building blocks twist to the right, while the outer (cementum) layer twists left. — New Atlas, 18 Aug. 2026

The team found that while the outer layer of the tusk, called the cementum, has a structure that spirals left, the inner part, dentine, spirals right. — Jackie Flynn Mogensen, Scientific American, 18 Aug. 2026

However, unlike many other spiral galaxies, the gas in the outer reaches of this one rotates in the opposite direction to the gas and stars closer to its center, creating an especially unusual motion. — Chelsea Gohd, Space.com, 18 Aug. 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