adj. & n.
--adj.
1. a of or situated on the outside or visible part (opp. INTERNAL). b coming or derived from the outside or an outside source.
2 relating to a country's foreign affairs.
3 outside the conscious subject (the external world).
4 (of medicine etc.) for use on the outside of the body.
5 for or concerning students taking the examinations of a university without attending it.
--n. (in pl.)
1. the outward features or aspect.
2 external circumstances.
3 inessentials.
Phrases and idioms:
external evidence evidence derived from a source independent of the thing discussed.
Derivatives:
externality n. (pl. -ies). externally adv.
Etymology: med.L f. L externus f. exterus outside