English · Work & Business
outsource
/ˈaʊtˌsɔːrs/
[/ˈaʊtˌsɔːrs/]
hire externally
Intermediateverb
Definition
To obtain goods or services from an outside supplier rather than producing them in-house.
Example
Many companies outsource their customer support to specialized firms abroad.
Many companies outsource their customer support to specialized firms abroad.
Etymology
A 1980s compound of 'out' and 'source', arising in manufacturing and business management.
How & Where It’s Used
Common in business operations and globalization discussions.