outré

adjective

ou·​tré ü-ˈtrā How to pronounce outré (audio)
: violating convention or propriety : bizarre

Example Sentences

His art is a bit too outré for most people to enjoy. an actor known more for his outré offscreen antics than for his on-screen performances
Recent Examples on the Web Many an outre fashion statement was photographed and breathlessly described at the Tonys. Chris Jones, chicagotribune.com, 12 June 2019 Kelela also has an ear for blending outre electronic instrumentation that seems to swoon under her powerful voice. Leor Galil, Chicago Reader, 27 Oct. 2017 Buffalo Bills’ quarterback Tyrod Taylor has a penchant for sartorially astute three-piece suits, while the Denver Broncos’ outside linebacker Von Miller takes a more outre approach with his big ol’ Burt Reynolds glasses and cowboy hats. Jacob Gallagher, WSJ, 24 Oct. 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'outré.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

Etymology

French, from past participle of outrer to go beyond, carry to excess, from Old French ultrer, utrer, from ultre, outre beyond

First Known Use

1722, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of outré was in 1722

Dictionary Entries Near outré

Cite this Entry

“Outré.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/outr%C3%A9. Accessed 27 Mar. 2023.

Kids Definition

outré

adjective
ou·​tré ü-ˈtrā How to pronounce outré (audio)
: very strange or unusual : bizarre
Etymology

French

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