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outlying

adjective

out·​ly·​ing ˈau̇t-ˌlī-iŋ How to pronounce outlying (audio)
Synonyms of outlyingnext
: remote from a center or main body
outlying areas

Examples of outlying in a Sentence

the outlying areas of the city
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.
Even though their outlying positions can present challenges like road closures, weather disruptions, and maintaining a reliable cold chain for perishable foods, these lodges don’t consider their setting a disadvantage. Jillian Dara, Robb Report, 28 Nov. 2025 It will also be used for escorting supplies to outlying islands and maintaining the security of maritime traffic lines, thereby increasing the flexibility of force deployment. Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 17 Nov. 2025 China sent its coast guard and military drones to the waters around outlying islands that both countries claim; Beijing also advised citizens to avoid traveling to Japan, and warned students there of heightened risks. J.d. Capelouto, semafor.com, 16 Nov. 2025 The People’s Liberation Army could attempt to seize Taiwan’s outlying islands or conduct a maritime blockade while its military arsenal makes the waters around Taiwan a no man’s land. Zack Cooper, Foreign Affairs, 6 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for outlying

Word History

First Known Use

1647, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of outlying was in 1647

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Outlying.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/outlying. Accessed 8 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

outlying

adjective
out·​ly·​ing ˈau̇t-ˌlī-iŋ How to pronounce outlying (audio)
: being far from a center or main body
an outlying suburb

More from Merriam-Webster on outlying

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