outer

adjective

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

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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.
The thick layer of rock shields it from cosmic rays, while a water tank and outer detectors help block or identify other particles that could mimic a dark matter signal. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 1 Sep. 2026 And in the years since the 2010 earthquake there, some residents have moved to outer areas, but it's really remained a cultural hub, and its Haitian roots are really visible everywhere. — Dana Taylor, USA Today, 1 Sep. 2026 That means that when such a stellar body buzzes a black hole in a rpTDE, its outer layers are stripped, but its core resists the influence of the black hole. — Robert Lea, Space.com, 1 Sep. 2026 This 45 percent-off unisex sweatshirt is a great outer layer paired with a $13 tank that is both durable and sweat-wicking. — Taylor Fox, Travel + Leisure, 1 Sep. 2026 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

Phrases Containing outer

Rhymes for outer

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Browse Nearby Words

outen
outer
Outer Banks
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Cite this Entry

“Outer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/outer. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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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
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