Guest

foreign

/ˈfɒɹən/ · for·eign
noun
  1. A foreign person, particularly a foreigner living in a country. The foreign community in the city is known for its cultural diversity.
  2. A foreign ship. The foreign ship docked at the harbor, bringing exotic goods from far-off lands.
  3. Clipping of chamber foreign: an outhouse. The old house had a small foreign out back that was used as a makeshift bathroom.
adjective
  1. Located outside a country or place, especially one's own. He liked visiting foreign cities and experiencing new cultures.
  2. Originating from, characteristic of, belonging to, or being a citizen of a country or place other than the one under discussion. There are many more foreign students in Europe since the Erasmus scheme started.
  3. Relating to a different nation. The foreign policy of the country is a complex and sensitive issue.
Did you know? The word 'foreign' has been used in various contexts throughout history, including in the phrase 'foreign policy', which refers to a country's relations with other nations.
Written by Lexi Wordsworth, Dictionary Editor 1 lookups Added Jul 29, 2026