inner

adjective

in·​ner ˈi-nər How to pronounce inner (audio)
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.
Check The Care Label Duvets can be made from a variety of materials, both in outer shell and inner filling, so your first step before washing should always be to check the tag from the manufacturer for specific care instructions. Abigail Wilt, Southern Living, 31 May 2025 Shaving requires removing the end cap of a bat, which can be difficult to do, and shaving down or thinning out the inner wall of the barrel. Ralph D. Russo, New York Times, 30 May 2025 Either way, by channeling his inner vermin, Fiennes gives a tour de force performance in under 20 minutes. 8. Shannon Carlin, Time, 30 May 2025 The functional fragrance is meant to boost mood, bring inner balance and spark the senses, all while imbuing a sense of clarity and peace. Celia Shatzman, Forbes.com, 30 May 2025 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 5 Jun. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on inner

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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