Exterior: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe the outer surface or part of something, often a building or vehicle. It's a broad term that applies to anything on the outside.

• The building’s exterior was recently painted.
• They admired the sleek exterior of the new car.

Generally used to refer to the external side of something or the area around a place. It is a less formal term compared to 'exterior'.

• The kids are playing outside.
• Don't leave the groceries outside for too long.

Normally refers to the front of a building, especially an imposing or decorative front. It can also mean a deceptive outward appearance.

• The cathedral's facade is truly magnificent.
• She maintained a cheerful facade despite her troubles.

Specifically used to describe the front part of a property, especially the part that faces a street or other public space.

• The property has a long street frontage.
• We planted trees along the frontage of our house.

Used when talking about the outer surface or appearance of something, such as a building or vehicle. It's more general and can refer to various things. It emphasizes the outside look or structure.

• The exterior of the house was painted blue
• They admired the sleek exterior of the new car

Specifically used in the context of vehicles, referring to the outer body panels or structure of the car. Often used when discussing repairs and maintenance.

• The car's bodywork was damaged in the accident
• He specializes in bodywork restoration for classic cars

Refers to a hard outer layer or structure of objects, usually hollow inside. It can also be used metaphorically. It often implies protection or a structural aspect.

• The turtle retreated into its shell
• The building's shell remained intact after the fire

Used when referring to the outer cover or protective layer of an object, typically mechanical or electronic devices. Often emphasizes the protective or functional aspect.

• The camera’s casing is waterproof
• The phone’s casing has a few scratches

Refers to the outside part of something, often used when talking about buildings or surfaces.

• The exterior of the house was painted white
• They admired the sleek exterior of the new car

Usually refers to the more distant part of something, often used in a comparative sense when something is on the edge or furthest from the center.

• They added decorations to the outer edges of the cake
• The spaceship reached the outer regions of the galaxy

Describes something that is outside or comes from the outside, often used in a more general sense, including abstract ideas and not just physical objects.

• He needed to fix some external issues with the software
• They sought external advice before making their decision

Describes the direction towards the outside or something that is visible on the outside, often involves motion or orientation.

• The door swings outward
• Her outward appearance suggests confidence, but she is often nervous