adjective

inner

IN-er/ˈɪnər/

Positioned within the outer boundary.

The onion's inner layers sit enclosed within larger outer rings.

A halved red onion with clearly nested layers; its small central layers are enclosed by the larger outer rings, making the inner position immediately visible.

Etymology

Inner originally meant ‘more inside,’ placing something farther within than something else. That comparative idea survives in its meaning ‘closer to the center,’ even though it no longer normally pairs with ‘than.’

In context

Virtual Chicken5:27

under this outer layer are located very powerful masses of red muscle the inner surface is lined with a creamy colored thick horny tissue raised in ridges

Virtual Chicken: Full Digestive System

More examples

The inner layer of the coat traps warm air.
A quiet walk helps him find inner peace.
Only her inner circle knows about the plan.

Forms

inner · innermost

Similar words

interior: Describes the inside part, often of buildings or spaces.
internal: Often describes parts or processes within bodies or organizations.
central: Means near the middle, not merely inside an outer boundary.