inner

adjective

in·​ner ˈi-nər 

1

a

: situated farther in

the inner bark

b

: being near a center especially of influence

the inner circles of political power

2

a

: of or relating to the mind or spirit

the inner life

b

: existing as an often repressed part of one's psychological makeup

inner child

inner artist

inner noun

innerly adverb

Synonyms

• inside
• interior
• internal
• inward

Examples of inner in a Sentence

She led the guests to an inner room.

the inner face of the arch

the inner lining of the jacket

listening to her inner voice

Recent Examples on the Web

As if Zendaya's hair wasn't shiny enough, makeup artist Raoul Alejandre turned up the shimmer to level 1000 with dewy, glowy skin, warm apricot eye shadow, and shimmery champagne shadow in Zendaya's inner corners for extra sparkle. —Kara Nesvig, Allure, 21 Oct. 2024

And the way to best affect outcomes is to find the eye of the hurricane, and act from that place of inner strength and wisdom. —Arianna Huffington, TIME, 21 Oct. 2024

To explore the outer world is amazing, and to explore the inner world is no less vast. —Lea Lane, Forbes, 20 Oct. 2024

Studies show smoking may contribute to tinnitus by reducing blood flow and irritating the inner air. —Carley Millhone, Health, 20 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English innera, comparative of inne within

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing inner

• inner circle
• inner city
• inner conflicts
• inner-directed
• inner ear
• inner light
• inner planet
• inner product
• inner sanctum
• inner space
• inner tube
• inner workings
• one's inner self

Kids Definition

inner

adjective

in·​ner ˈin-ər 

1

a

: situated farther in

inner room

b

: being near a center especially of influence

an inner circle of advisors

2

: of or relating to the mind or spirit

inner peace

innerly adverb