outward
OWT-wuhd
Outward (adj) means relating to the outside or exterior; visible on the surface. Example: “Despite the outward calm, she was terrified inside.”
adj
1
Relating to the outside or exterior; visible on the surface.
"Despite the outward calm, she was terrified inside."
"His outward appearance gave no hint of his illness."
adv
1
Toward the outside; away from the center.
"The door swings outward."
How to use outward
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo do with the outside or surface of something, as opposed to what's underneath or inside.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
outward appearance
outward calm
outward journey
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Word forms
- Plural
- outwards
- Third person singular
- outwards
- Past tense
- outwarded
- Comparative
- more outward
- Superlative
- most outward
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Despite the _____ calm, she was terrified inside.
Etymology
From Old English utweard, built from out + -ward, the same suffix meaning "in the direction of" found in "forward" and "homeward."
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “outward” mean?
The word “outward” means relating to the outside or exterior; visible on the surface. In plain terms, to do with the outside or surface of something, as opposed to what's underneath or inside.
How do you pronounce “outward”?
“Outward” is pronounced OWT-wuhd (/ˈaʊt.wɚd/ in IPA).
How do you use “outward” in a sentence?
Here is “outward” used in a sentence: “Despite the outward calm, she was terrified inside.”
What is another word for “outward”?
Words with a similar meaning to “outward” include outwards.
What is the opposite of “outward”?
The opposite of “outward” — its antonyms — are inward and inwards.
What part of speech is “outward”?
Depending on how it is used, “outward” can be an adjective and an adverb.
Where does the word “outward” come from?
The word “outward” comes from Old English. From Old English utweard, built from out + -ward, the same suffix meaning "in the direction of" found in "forward" and "homeward.".
Is “outward” a common word?
“Outward” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
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