exterior

[ik-steer-ee-er]

adjective

1. outer; being on the outer side.

   the exterior surface; exterior decorations.

   Synonyms: superficial, external, outside, outward
   Antonyms: interior

2. intended or suitable for outdoor use.

   exterior paint.

3. situated or being outside; pertaining to or connected with what is outside.

   the exterior territories of a country.

   Synonyms: extrinsic, foreign, extraneous, outlying

noun

1. the outer surface or part; outside.

   Synonyms: face
   Antonyms: interior

2. outward form or appearance.

   She has a placid exterior, but inside she is tormented.

   Synonyms: aspect, mien

3. Mathematics.,  the collection of points not contained in the closure of a given set.

exterior

/ ɪkˈstɪərɪə /

noun

1. a part, surface, or region that is on the outside

2. the observable outward behaviour or appearance of a person

3. a film or scene shot outside a studio

adjective

1. of, situated on, or suitable for the outside

   exterior cleaning

2. coming or acting from without; external

   exterior complications

3. of or involving foreign nations

Other Word Forms

• exteriorly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of exterior¹

1525–35; < Latin, comparative of exter or exterus on the outside, outward. See ex- ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of exterior¹

C16: from Latin, comparative of exterus on the outside, from ex out of

Example Sentences

There were also photos of the exterior of the plane showing the windscreen shattered.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The home’s dramatic double-height foyer leads to an expansive living area, which can be opened to the backyard area, where the pool and exterior dining space are located.

Read more on MarketWatch

The protest by Oviedo and Espanyol players was not shown on live television as cameras cut away to the exterior of the stadium.

Read more on BBC

He unveiled a "Presidential Walk of Fame" along the West Wing colonnade in September, displaying gold-framed portraits of himself and the 44 other presidents along the white exterior wall.

Read more on BBC

The exterior boasts a pool with a waterslide, a pool house, an art studio, a greenhouse, and a bamboo-enclosed outdoor shower and soaking tub.

Read more on MarketWatch

Related Words

• coating 
• facade 
• skin 
• surface