ENGLISH
REFERENCE

exterior

n. countable
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ɪkˈstɪɹiɝ// UK //ɛkstˈiəɹɪɐ// ex·te·ri·or

n. the outside part or surface of something. You use this to describe how a building looks from the street or how a person appears to others.

n. the outer surface or part of a structure; the outward appearance of a person as opposed to their inner character.


SIMPLE

The exterior of the house is painted bright white.

CONTEXTUAL

While the building's exterior looks modern and cold, the inside is warm and welcoming.

COMPLEX

Despite his gruff and intimidating exterior, those who worked closely with the director knew him to be a deeply compassionate and patient mentor.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Origin

From Latin exterior.

Usage

Often used in the singular to describe a person's outward manner; frequently paired with 'tough' or 'calm'.

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