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

• exterior
• external
• outside
• 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

Scientists hope to bring this technology to even larger telescopes, including the 4-meter Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope in Hawaiʻi, promising an even closer look at the sun's outer layers. —Daisy Dobrijevic, Space.com, 29 May 2025

That’s all because of cooling properties like moisture-wicking outer shells and hypoallergenic, airy fill materials, such as lightweight down and mulberry silk. —Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 28 May 2025

Meanwhile, the Cybertruck’s outer shell was hard to bend and manipulate. —Peter Cohan, Forbes.com, 27 May 2025

Find the Big Dipper's pointer stars − located on the outer edge of the ladle. —Greta Cross, USA Today, 25 May 2025

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