outgoing

UK: ˌaʊtˈɡəʊɪŋ | US: ˌaʊtˈɡoʊɪŋ

Definition

  1. adj. 1. friendly and socially confident; extroverted.

  2. adj. 2. leaving a place or position (e.g., outgoing mail).

  3. adj. 3. (of a leader or official) finishing a term of office.

Structure
out <external>go <move>ing <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word "outgoing" combines "out" (Old English ūt, meaning "external") and "go" (Old English gān, meaning "to move"), with the suffix "-ing" forming an adjective. Originally, it described physical movement outward (e.g., outgoing tides). By the 17th century, it evolved metaphorically to describe sociable personalities, reflecting the idea of "reaching outward" in behavior. The administrative sense (e.g., outgoing president) emerged later, emphasizing departure from a role.

Examples

  1. Her outgoing personality makes her popular at social events.

  2. The outgoing flight was delayed due to bad weather.

  3. The outgoing mayor gave a farewell speech yesterday.

  4. He’s too outgoing to feel shy in crowded places.

  5. Outgoing mail is processed every morning at 9 AM.