outwardly

[ out-werd-lee ]

adverb

1. as regards appearance or outward manifestation:

   outwardly charming; outwardly considerate.

2. on the outside or outer surface; externally:

   Outwardly, the fruit was rough to the touch.

3. toward the outside:

   The pier stretched outwardly from the shore.

outwardly

/ ˈaʊtwədlɪ /

adverb

1. in outward appearance
2. with reference to the outside or outer surface; externally

Word History and Origins

Origin of outwardly¹

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400; outward, -ly

Example Sentences

Yet Onana, outwardly so boisterous and confident, could be forgiven for sharing the same uncertainties.

From BBC

I’m curious, do you think that because “Emilia Pérez” is so outwardly offensive, there might be a reality where this movie becomes a cult hit among queer and trans people?

From Salon

“I can't recall a program ever being cut like this since most Republican presidents have been at least outwardly supportive of it,” Baker said.

From Salon

But, whisper it: outwardly, in public and for now at least, the language and diplomacy used by the two of them about each other appears to be broadly conventional.

From BBC

Some of your projects, like “The Pendragon Cycle,” don’t outwardly appear to be political.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• seemingly
• superficially