down-to-earth

adjective

ˈdau̇n-tü-ˈərth 

1

: practical

down-to-earth traveling tips

2

: unpretentious

surprised to find the movie star so down-to-earth

down-to-earthness noun

Synonyms of down-to-earth

• humble
• meek
• modest

Examples of down-to-earth in a Sentence

we were all impressed by how down-to-earth the movie star turned out to be

a down-to-earth guidance counselor who is frank in telling students which colleges they're likely to get into

Recent Examples on the Web

In reality, Hotel La Palma’s position is more down-to-earth and worldly. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 Sep. 2026

Marc Jacobs, who will remain as creative director, is a Capital F fashion designer and G-III is known more for its work with department stores that at least dabble with more down-to-earth prices. — Evan Clark, Footwear News, 2 Sep. 2026

An asphalt paving contractor, Dean had a down-to-earth sensibility that grounded Parton’s glamour, and opposites could not have attracted more. — Rachel Desantis, PEOPLE, 1 Sep. 2026

What Onslaught does remember to develop are the good guys, far less colorful than the villains but, in their down-to-earth relatability, no less compelling. — Angie Han, HollywoodReporter, 31 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1922, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

down-to-earth

adjective

ˌdau̇n-tə-ˈ(w)ərth

1

: practical sense 3

down-to-earth advice

2

: unpretentious

a down-to-earth person

down-to-earthness noun