outer space

noun

: space immediately outside the earth's atmosphere
broadly : interplanetary or interstellar space

Examples of outer space in a Sentence

a satellite in outer space Is there life in outer space?
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.
The treaty prohibits the placing of nuclear weapons or other weapons of mass destruction in Earth's orbit, on celestial bodies, or in outer space, according to the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs. Ryan Chan, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 May 2025 National legislation Heartened by the focus on protecting cultural heritage in outer space is Michelle Hanlon, co-founder and CEO of For All Moonkind, a long-time advocate of caring for historic lunar landing sites. Leonard David, Space.com, 29 May 2025 Stanley Kubrick deliberately chose the Danube Waltz to emphasize the grace and poetry of movement in space – a floating ballet in outer space. David Szondy may 25, New Atlas, 25 May 2025 Cruise is also working with McQuarrie, as well as NASA and SpaceX, to create the first Hollywood action movie filmed in outer space. Tyler Foggatt, New Yorker, 24 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for outer space

Word History

First Known Use

1842, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of outer space was in 1842

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Cite this Entry

“Outer space.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/outer%20space. Accessed 5 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

outer space

noun
: space entry 1 sense 4
especially : the region beyond the solar system

More from Merriam-Webster on outer space

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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