outwardly
Americanadverb
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as regards appearance or outward manifestation.
outwardly charming; outwardly considerate.
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on the outside or outer surface; externally.
Outwardly, the fruit was rough to the touch.
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toward the outside.
The pier stretched outwardly from the shore.
adverb
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in outward appearance
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with reference to the outside or outer surface; externally
Etymology
Origin of outwardly
Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400; see origin at outward, -ly
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Yes, outwardly, Lamb is, as Herron writes, a “sentient grease stain,” but Oldman believes he possesses a “strong moral and ethical compass.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 1, 2026
This is a reference to the foreign secretary and outwardly gives cover to Sir Olly's anticipated defence, that the law states he should be discreet with information gathered during vetting.
From BBC ● Apr. 20, 2026
While outwardly glamorous, working at a luxury store can be cutthroat.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 25, 2025
There seems little outwardly wrong with the company’s performance.
From Barron's ● Dec. 11, 2025
But outwardly, I smile and hoist my electric board on my shoulder.
From "Warcross" by Marie Lu
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
