EARTHLY Synonyms: 43 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'earthly' distinct from other similar adjectives?

The words mundane and worldly are common synonyms of earthly . While all three words mean "belonging to or characteristic of the earth," earthly often implies a contrast with what is heavenly or spiritual. // abandoned earthly concerns and entered a convent

Q: When is 'mundane' a more appropriate choice than 'earthly'?

In some situations, the words mundane and earthly are roughly equivalent. However, mundane suggests reference to the immediate and practical. // a mundane discussion of finances

Q: How are the words 'worldly' and 'mundane' related as synonyms of 'earthly'?

Worldly and mundane both imply a relation to the immediate concerns and activities of human beings, worldly suggesting tangible personal gain or gratification. // worldly goods

earthly

adjective

ˈərth-lē

Definition of earthly next

as in temporal

having to do with life on earth especially as opposed to that in heaven a sermon against our obsession with earthly pursuits

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word earthly distinct from other similar adjectives?

The words mundane and worldly are common synonyms of earthly. While all three words mean "belonging to or characteristic of the earth," earthly often implies a contrast with what is heavenly or spiritual.

abandoned earthly concerns and entered a convent

When is mundane a more appropriate choice than earthly?

In some situations, the words mundane and earthly are roughly equivalent. However, mundane suggests reference to the immediate and practical.

a mundane discussion of finances

How are the words worldly and mundane related as synonyms of earthly?

Worldly and mundane both imply a relation to the immediate concerns and activities of human beings, worldly suggesting tangible personal gain or gratification.

worldly goods

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of earthly Conceptually, ‘Moonlight Rhapsody’ is powered by El Khalil’s poetic musings over the mysteries of the moon and how humanity’s missions there have altered the course of earthly history. —

Kyle Roderick, Forbes, 17 Dec. 2024 This Barbera is both an earthly garden driven by rich red fruits and an ancient medicinal herb garden with its eucalyptus notes and proof that Barbera holds its own next to Barolo. —

Lana Bortolot, Forbes, 23 Dec. 2024 Under Jamison’s direction, the Ailey dancers grew more and more godlike in technique without losing earthly looseness and soul. —

The New Yorker, 20 Dec. 2024 Walking among them is an lesson in earthly renewal. —

Christopher Reynolds, Los Angeles Times, 12 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for earthly

Recent Examples of Synonyms for earthly

Adjective

And though Chen maneuvers every temporal and geographical shift, efforts to convey the political context of each new era can outweigh character development, undercutting the emotional breadth this story carries.

— Kayla Maiuri, New York Times, 3 Jan. 2025
For leaders, introducing intentional financial, temporal, or otherwise constraints can reignite creativity and urgency within stagnant teams.

— Julian Hayes II, Forbes, 28 Dec. 2024