outer

adjective

out·​er ˈau̇-tər 

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

Synonyms

• exterior
• external
• outside
• outward

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

An outer stash pocket stores wet skins, a helmet, or other quick-access items while keeping them out of the way of diagonal ski and vertical board carry. —Outside Editors, Outside Online, 11 Nov. 2024

Fluoride counters that process with a one-two punch, by reducing acid and strengthening enamel, the tooth’s protective outer layer. —Erika Edwards, NBC News, 7 Nov. 2024

Fluoride strengthens teeth by hardening their outer surface, or enamel. —John Tufts, The Indianapolis Star, 5 Nov. 2024

Meanwhile, the outer promenade at Brooklyn Bridge Park rewards strolling visitors with an up close view of the Lower Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty herself. —Elizabeth Fazzare, Architectural Digest, 5 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing outer

• come-outer
• down-and-outer
• out-and-outer
• outer ear
• outer planet
• outer space

Kids Definition

outer

adjective

out·​er ˈau̇t-ər 

1

: located on the outside or farther out

the outer wall

2

: being away from a center

the outer planets of the solar system