earthly
Earthly (adj) means belonging to this world or life, rather than to heaven or the afterlife. Example: “He gave up his earthly possessions to join the monastery.”
How to use earthly
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishRelating to ordinary life on Earth, as opposed to spiritual or heavenly matters.
Word forms
earthlier comparative, more earthly comparative, earthlies plural, earthliest superlative, most earthly superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He gave up his _____ possessions to join the monastery.
Etymology
From Old English eorþlīċ, from earth plus -ly.
Rhymes for earthly
See all rhymes for earthly →Frequently asked questions
What does “earthly” mean?
The word “earthly” means belonging to this world or life, rather than to heaven or the afterlife. In plain terms, relating to ordinary life on Earth, as opposed to spiritual or heavenly matters.
How do you pronounce “earthly”?
“Earthly” is pronounced UHTH-lee (/ˈəːθli/ in IPA).
How do you use “earthly” in a sentence?
Here is “earthly” used in a sentence: “He gave up his earthly possessions to join the monastery.”
What part of speech is “earthly”?
“Earthly” is an adjective.
Where does the word “earthly” come from?
The word “earthly” comes from Old English. From Old English eorþlīċ, from earth plus -ly.
Is “earthly” a common word?
“Earthly” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “earthly” have?
“Earthly” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: belonging to this world or life, rather than to heaven or the afterlife.