Foreign — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

adjective /ˈfȯr-ən/ for·eign

Meaning & Definition of Foreign

Foreign (adjective)

  1. situated outside a place or country; especially, situated outside one's own country
  2. born in, belonging to, or characteristic of some place or country other than the one under consideration
  3. of, relating to, or proceeding from some other person or material thing than the one under consideration

Word Forms of Foreign

Derived words: foreignness (noun)

Origin & Etymology of Foreign

Middle English forein, from Anglo-French, from Late Latin foranus on the outside, from Latin foris outside forum

First known use: 14th century

Vocabulary Lists & Topics for Foreign

Words & Phrases Containing Foreign

Frequently Asked Questions about Foreign

What does "Foreign" mean?

"Foreign" means situated outside a place or country; especially, situated outside one's own country. As an adjective, it is defined as: situated outside a place or country; especially, situated outside one's own country. It has 3 distinct senses.

Is "Foreign" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Foreign" is an adjective.

Is "Foreign" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?

As an A2-level word, "Foreign" is typical of Cambridge A2 Key (KET), PTE Academic 30–42, TOEIC Listening & Reading 225+.

How do you pronounce "Foreign"?

"Foreign" is pronounced /ˈfȯr-ən/ and divided into syllables as for·eign.

What is the origin of the word "Foreign"?

"Foreign" comes from Middle English forein, from Anglo-French, from Late Latin foranus on the outside, from Latin foris outside forum. First known use: 14th century.

What CEFR level is "Foreign"?

"Foreign" is an A2-level word in SophDict's CEFR vocabulary lists, which group English words from A1 (beginner) to C2 (proficient).

What topics is "Foreign" used in?

"Foreign" is commonly used in topics such as Travel.

What words are derived from "Foreign"?

Words derived from "Foreign" include foreignness (noun).