An Encylopedia Britannica Company

July 12, 2024 Word of the Day

external /ɪkˈstɚnl̟/ adjective
external
/ɪkˈstɚnl̟/
adjective
The house has some external damage.
The house has some external damage.
Definition of EXTERNAL

1 : located, seen, or used on the outside or surface of something

  • the external features of the building

  • the external signs of the disease

  • This medication is intended only for external use. [=for use on the skin]

— opposite INTERNAL

2 : coming from outside

  • external pressures

  • external stimuli

— opposite INTERNAL

3 : existing or occurring outside your mind

  • external reality

— opposite INTERNAL

4 : concerning relationships with foreign countries

  • external [=foreign, international] affairs

— opposite INTERNAL

— externally adverb

More Words of the Day