noun
reputation; public image; appearances
Refers to how one is seen by others, especially in terms of honor, respectability, or saving face. Often used in phrases like 外聞が悪い (disgraceful) or 外聞を気にする (to care about appearances).
そんなことをしたら外聞が悪い。
It would be disgraceful to do such a thing.
彼はいつも外聞を気にしている。
He is always concerned about appearances.