periphery

noun

pe·​riph·​ery pə-ˈri-f(ə-)rē 

plural peripheries

1

: the perimeter of a circle or other closed curve

also : the perimeter of a polygon

2

: the external boundary or surface of a body

3

a

: the outward bounds of something as distinguished from its internal regions or center : confines

b

: an area lying beyond the strict limits of a thing

Synonyms

• perimeter
• edge
• confines
• circumference
• boundary
• border
• edging

Examples of periphery in a Sentence

the dogs are confined by an invisible electronic fence that runs along the periphery of the yard

Recent Examples on the Web

Shooting presented unique logistical hurdles, with different sequences filmed across multiple golf courses around Manila’s peripheries due to restrictions. —Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 27 Oct. 2025

Familiar faces dotting the periphery of the dance floor leaned in close to catch up over the loudspeakers. —Kinsey Crowley, USA Today, 27 Oct. 2025

Along the periphery of the bar are raised banquettes, making the room look like an old supper club waiting for Bobby Darin to take the stage. —Keith Pandolfi, Cincinnati Enquirer, 24 Oct. 2025

Height on the Plaza The areas are largely on the Plaza’s periphery and include parking garages that are in need of major repair or replacement. —Eric Adler, Kansas City Star, 23 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle French peripherie, from Late Latin peripheria, from Greek periphereia, from peripherein to carry around, from peri- + pherein to carry — more at bear

First Known Use

circa 1568, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

periphery

noun

pe·​riph·​ery pə-ˈrif-(ə-)rē 

plural peripheries

1

: the boundary or surface of a body or figure

2

: the outer or outermost part

Medical Definition

periphery

noun

pe·​riph·​ery pə-ˈrif-(ə-)rē 

plural peripheries

1

: the outward bounds of something as distinguished from its internal regions or center

2

: the regions (as the sense organs, the muscles, or the viscera) in which nerves terminate