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 of outer

• exterior
• 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

Researchers developed LEDs that emit UVC at wavelengths below 235 nm, which is also absorbed by the outer, non-living layers of the skin. — Ameya Paleja, Interesting Engineering, 1 Oct. 2026

As a result, these solid outer layers can tilt and slide around the planet’s liquid inner core beneath as the planet works to redistribute its mass. — Jacek Krywko, Scientific American, 1 Oct. 2026

The skin barrier, the outer layer that holds water in, gets leakier with age, so moisture loss speeds up compared with your 30s. — Miami Herald, 1 Oct. 2026

Forecasters said Nolo's outer bands could cause life-threatening flooding and mudslides, with parts of the Big Island possibly getting up to 20 inches of rain. — Arkansas Online, 29 Sep. 2026

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

Rhymes for outer

• doubter
• lauter
• stouter

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