Definition of "out-" in English

prefix

1. External to, on the outside of

   • outback
   • outhouse

2. Toward the outside of, away from

   • outcast
   • outlead
   • outflee

3. Forms verbs with the sense of surpassing or exceeding the prefixed word. This construction is productive.

   • outdo
   • outlast
   • outmaneuver

4. Greater than

   • outsize
   • outrun
   • outgrow
   • By the end of the competition, Lisa's plant had outgrown its competitors, winning the competition.

5. Beyond

   • The plant's leaves outgrew their box

6. Completely

   • outfit
   • outwork