outsource

verb

out·​source ˈau̇t-ˌsȯrs How to pronounce outsource (audio)
outsourced; outsourcing; outsources

transitive + intransitive

: to procure (something, such as some goods or services needed by a business or organization) from outside sources and especially from foreign or nonunion suppliers : to contract for work, jobs, etc., to be done by outside or foreign workers
decided to outsource some back-office operations
Some services and aspects of production were outsourced to cut costs.
Firms outsource to capitalize on their strengths while minimizing business activities that are not core functions.John K. Borchardt
compare insource

Examples of outsource in a Sentence

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.
Europe can no longer afford to outsource its security or delay embracing the innovation revolution reshaping warfare. Eleanor Pringle, Fortune, 16 Oct. 2025 Under this model described by the Tesla chief, xAI would define the operating system, reference designs and product requirements, while specialist outsource to third parties to build physical products, much like Apple’s business model. Alex Harrington, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 Oct. 2025 In this type of arrangement, an employer will usually outsource the logistics of approving or denying coverage to an outside company. Kate Snow, NBC news, 25 Sep. 2025 Yet when parents outsource the work of raising their kids to a bot, both adults and children are bound to miss out. Miranda Rake, The Atlantic, 23 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for outsource

Word History

First Known Use

1979, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of outsource was in 1979

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Outsource.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/outsource. Accessed 20 Oct. 2025.

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