earthinggrounding

Earthing or grounding refers broadly to making an electrical connection with the Earth. In British English the term is often "earthing" and in American English "grounding"; both describe practices and concepts in electrical engineering as well as a separate complementary-health movement that uses skin contact with the ground.

In electrical contexts, grounding provides a reference potential for circuits and a low-resistance path to dissipate fault currents, lightning, and static charge. It is a core safety measure in buildings, power distribution and electronic systems, implemented by earth conductors, ground rods or plates, and bonding between conductive parts. Proper grounding reduces shock risk, stabilizes voltages, and limits electromagnetic interference; installation and testing follow national codes and standards to manage ground potential rise and ensure continuity.

In the health and wellness context, earthing or grounding is the practice of direct skin contact with the Earth (walking barefoot, using conductive sheets or mats) with proponents claiming reduced inflammation, improved sleep, or enhanced well-being via transfer of electrons from the ground. Scientific investigations have produced mixed and limited-quality evidence, and mechanisms remain speculative; consensus in medical and scientific communities is that more rigorous research is needed.

The term thus covers both a well-established engineering requirement essential for safety and operation, and a cultural/alternative-health practice whose benefits are debated. Understanding the intended meaning depends on context.