outward
adj. · adv.-
1 visible appearance (adj.) B2 Upper Intermediaterelating to how something looks on the outside, which might be different from how it really is.
relating to the external appearance or visible surface of something, often contrasted with its internal reality.
ExampleDespite his outward calm, he was actually very nervous about the interview.
ExampleThe company maintained an outward appearance of prosperity while its internal financial records told a much more troubling story.
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2 located on the outside (adj.) B2 Upper Intermediatelocated on or facing the outside of something.
situated on or directed toward the exterior or outside.
ExampleThe outward walls of the castle were over three meters thick.
ExampleThe outward surface of the spacecraft was coated in a heat-resistant ceramic to survive the friction of re-entry.
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3 moving away from the center (adv.) B2 Upper Intermediatemoving or pointing away from the center or towards the outside.
moving or directed away from a central point or towards the exterior.
ExampleThe door opens outward, so make sure you have enough space to stand back.
ExampleAs the star collapsed, it released a massive shockwave that travelled outward through the surrounding gas clouds.
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4 nautical travel (adj.) C1 Advanced Formaldescribes a journey or ship moving away from a home port.
denoting a journey or vessel departing from a home port toward a foreign destination.
ExampleThe outward journey to Australia took several weeks by ship.
ExampleThe outward voyage was plagued by heavy storms, delaying the merchant vessel's arrival at the colonial trading post.
UsageOften used in the phrase 'outward bound'.
From Middle English outward, from Old English ūtweard, equivalent to out + -ward.
From out- + ward.