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 Contemporary sculptures of earthly Greek women were usually made from terra-cotta and depicted them clothed in tight cloaks. —

Sonja Anderson, Smithsonian Magazine, 24 Jan. 2025 But as Iyer discovers, the monks aren’t blithely floating above earthly cares. —

Danny Heitman, The Christian Science Monitor, 23 Jan. 2025 Like all of the director’s most memorable settings, the show’s world abided by something closer to dream logic than any earthly science, obfuscating even the most integral developments. —

Emma Stefansky, The Atlantic, 22 Jan. 2025 There is no earthly reason why the animators had to go so hard on this show. —

Ollie Barder, Forbes, 20 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for earthly

Recent Examples of Synonyms for earthly

Adjective

Great vacations exist in a temporal netherworld, unmoored from the reality of daily life.

— Sofia Perez, Travel + Leisure, 30 Jan. 2025
The Apocalypse was a way out, a temporal doorway to God and Heaven.

— Arthur Krystal, The New Yorker, 27 Jan. 2025