Definition

Describing something that is going away from a particular place or point, often used in the context of travel or communication.

Example

The outbound flight to New York leaves at 3 PM.

Conversation

Did you see the schedule for the outbound trains?

Yeah, I checked it this morning; they seem to run pretty frequently.

I hope I can catch an outbound train before noon.

You should be fine if you leave soon!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Outbound** → It is formed from "out-" (meaning outside or away) and "bound" (from Old English "bund", meaning to tie or bind). The word "outbound" refers to something that is bound or directed outside or away from a point of origin.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'going outside' ('out-') and is 'tied' or 'directed' ('bound') — that's why outbound means directed away from a starting point.

Visually Confused Words