earthly

Earthly is an adjective used to describe things related to the earth or the physical, material world. In contemporary usage it often contrasts with spiritual or celestial realms, and it can carry connotations of mundanity, practicality, or human experience. Common phrases include earthly concerns, earthly pleasures, and earthly life, where the term emphasizes the worldly, temporary nature of those things.

Etymology and scope provide context for the term. It derives from Old English eorðlic ('earthly, of the earth'), formed from eorð ('earth') plus the suffix -lic ('like' or 'characteristic of'). The word has cognates in other Germanic languages, reflecting a shared linguistic heritage that centers on the earth. Modern English retains the metaphorical sense of 'earthly' to distinguish the material world from nonmaterial or spiritual realms.

Usage and nuance are important for interpretation. In religious or philosophical contexts, 'earthly' is often used to denote things of this world as opposed to heavenly or divine matters. It can describe physical, tangible attributes, or the everyday, practical aspects of life. While generally neutral, it can carry a critical undertone when implying worldliness or a focus on carnal concerns.