inner
UK: ˈɪnə | US: ˈɪnər
adj. located inside or further within
adj. relating to the mind or spirit; private or subjective
n. the internal part of something
The word "inner" derives from Old English innera, a comparative form of inne ("inside"). The root in (from Proto-Germanic in) retains its core meaning of "inside," while the suffix -er (common in comparative adjectives like "greater" or "deeper") emphasizes a relative position further within. Over time, "inner" expanded from physical placement to abstract concepts (e.g., "inner thoughts"), reflecting a linguistic shift from spatial to psychological domains.
The inner layers of the cake were still warm.
She focused on her inner feelings during meditation.
The castle’s inner walls were heavily fortified.
His calm exterior hid an inner turmoil.
The book explores the inner workings of the human brain.