exterior

1 of 2

adjective

ex·​te·​ri·​or ek-ˈstir-ē-ər 

1

: being on an outside surface : situated on the outside

2

: observable by outward signs

His exterior quietness is belied by an occasional nervous twitch …

—Current Biography

3

: suitable for use on outside surfaces

exterior paint

exteriorly adverb

exterior

2 of 2

noun

1

a

: an exterior part or surface : outside

b

: outward manner or appearance

2

: a representation (as on stage or film) of an outdoor scene

also : a scene filmed outdoors

Synonyms of exterior

Adjective

• outer

Noun

• surface
• front

Examples of exterior in a Sentence

Adjective

the house's exterior walls badly need to be painted

Noun

The building has a rather plain exterior.

the exterior of the tooth consists of very hard enamel

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Dixeight Nylon Tote Bag Three interior pockets and three exterior pockets—including a discreet zippered pocket that’s perfect for stashing your wallet or keys—come together in this featherlight nylon travel tote. —Amelia McBride, Travel + Leisure, 30 Jan. 2026

The exterior paint is distinctive blue, first seen on the Optiq-V, while the inside is black with blue accents. —Erik Shilling, Robb Report, 29 Jan. 2026

Noun

These shoes are specifically designed for inclement weather (winter slush included), and the waterproof Goretex exteriors will keep you warm and dry even if your next travel destination just received a truckload of snow. —Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 31 Jan. 2026

The unlawful taking of any part or accessory affixed to the interior or exterior of a motor vehicle in a manner which would make the item an attachment of the vehicle or necessary for its operation. —Baltimore Sun Staff, Baltimore Sun, 30 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Latin, comparative of exter, exterus being on the outside, foreign, from ex

First Known Use

Adjective

1528, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1591, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing exterior

• exterior angle
• exterior/outside door

Rhymes for exterior

• anterior
• inferior
• interior
• ulterior

Kids Definition

exterior

1 of 2 adjective

ex·​te·​ri·​or ek-ˈstir-ē-ər 

1

: situated on the outside

2

: external entry 1 sense 1

3

: suitable for use on outside surfaces

exterior paint

exteriorly adverb

exterior

2 of 2 noun

1

: an exterior part or surface : outside

2

: visible manner or appearance

a calm exterior

Medical Definition

exterior

adjective

ex·​te·​ri·​or ek-ˈstir-ē-ər 

: being on an outside surface : situated on the outside

exteriorly adverb