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

Move the person into a shaded, cool area, remove their outer clothing and work to cool them down as quickly as possible, preferably with cold water or an ice bath. — Lauren Victory, CBS News, 30 June 2026

Rather than absorbing moisture, water molecules adhere to the outer and inner surfaces of the gel, filling all the open spaces and pores to form a thin film. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 29 June 2026

Both inner and outer displays are spacious and stunning, and a powerful processor supports a rich range of AI features as well as all your everyday tasks. — K. Thor Jensen, PC Magazine, 29 June 2026

Comets, though typically found in the outer solar system, can also cause meteors, and even meteor showers. — Adam Lark, Scientific American, 28 June 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