inner

adjective

in·​ner ˈi-nər How to pronounce inner (audio)
Synonyms of innernext
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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Earth got some of the key ingredients for life from asteroids in the inner solar system – with a little help from the solar system's largest planet, Jupiter, according to a recent study. Kiona N. Smith, Space.com, 17 June 2026 My garrulous inner narrator never stops, and my body can’t keep still. Literary Hub, 17 June 2026 Wear them comfortably all day, even on a red-eye flight, thanks to the flexible elastic waistband and inner drawcord. Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 17 June 2026 For one, the inspiring and bonding experience of Cowgirl Up—a week where women from across the globe come to live out their dreams of an iconic ranch stay—and not only release, but exercise their inner cowboy. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 16 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for inner

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of inner was before the 12th century

Cite this Entry

“Inner.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inner. Accessed 19 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

inner

adjective
in·​ner ˈin-ər How to pronounce inner (audio)
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

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