outer

adjective

out·​er ˈau̇-tər How to pronounce outer (audio)
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

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
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.
Unlike supernovas, which obliterate stars, novas are recurring events that only affect the outer layer of a white dwarf. Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 2 July 2025 When consumed regularly, this can contribute to dental erosion, where the outer protective layer of enamel is gradually worn away.14 Gatorade now offers a Zero Sugar Thirst Quencher, which has no sugar but the same amount of electrolytes as the original. Lindsey Desoto, Health, 1 July 2025 How Adams will try to win Adams would have to reconfigure his multiracial base of working-class New Yorkers in the city’s outer boroughs. Eduardo Cuevas, USA Today, 27 June 2025 The shoe's heel area is still attached to it; its outer sole still contains hobnails. Andrea Margolis, FOXNews.com, 22 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for outer

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from out entry 4 + -er entry 1

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of outer was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Outer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/outer. Accessed 9 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

outer

adjective
out·​er ˈau̇t-ər How to pronounce outer (audio)
1
: located on the outside or farther out
the outer wall
2
: being away from a center
the outer planets of the solar system

More from Merriam-Webster on outer

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