1. Relating to, existing on, or connected with the outside or an outer part; exterior.
2. Suitable for application to the outside: external paints.
3. Existing independently of the mind.
4. Acting or coming from the outside: external pressures.
5. Of or relating chiefly to outward appearance; superficial: "An internal sense of righteousness dwindles into an external concern for reputation" (A.R. Gurney, Jr.).
6. Of or relating to foreign affairs or foreign countries: the country's minister of external affairs.

1. An exterior part or surface.
2. externals
   1. Outer circumstances.
   2. Outward appearances: was charming as far as the externals went.

[Middle English, from Latin externus, outward, from exter.]

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.