worldly

adjective

world·ly | \ ˈwər(-ə)ld-lē ,

ˈwərl-lē \

Definition of worldly

1 : of, relating to, or devoted to this world and its pursuits rather than to religion or spiritual affairs

2 : worldly-wise

Other Words from worldly Synonyms & Antonyms Choose the Right Synonym Example Sentences Learn More about worldly

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Choose the Right Synonym for worldly

earthly, worldly, mundane 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 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 and mundane suggesting reference to the immediate and practical. a mundane discussion of finances

Examples of worldly in a Sentence

She is more worldly than her younger sister. she returned from her year as an exchange student a much more worldly person

Recent Examples on the Web

Who knows how things might look in 2022 with a team of built around emerging youngsters and the other-worldly skills of Christian Pulisic. — Martin Rogers, USA TODAY, "The United States' World Cup failure is looking worse every day," 19 June 2018 International stars cross oceans for their fans, cross continents to work with other artists, and generally live a rather worldly lifestyle. — Kat Bein, Billboard, "Martin Garrix & Khalid Share 'Ocean' Ballad: Listen," 15 June 2018 Architecture fans and students from all over the world have visited the compound to see the imaginative and other-worldly buildings that Hubbell designed and built with his son from the 1950s-1960s. — Pam Kragen, sandiegouniontribune.com, "At 86, artist Hubbell isn't slowing down," 3 June 2018 These clergy and parishioners dismissed the humanitarian act of rescuing Jews — which was also undeniably political — as a course best avoided by a church that perceived itself above the taint of worldly affairs. — Rabbi Dan Fink, idahostatesman, "Neutrality is not a moral option | Idaho Statesman," 21 Apr. 2018 Croatia has been a high-powered side blessed with worldly gifts in the feet of Luka Modric and Ivan Rakitic. — Martin Rogers, USA TODAY, "Why England's World Cup pain hurts so much," 11 July 2018 Along with an influx of worldly dining options has come a spate of luxury hotels. — Kat Odell, Vogue, "Where to Find the Fruits of Prague’s Food Revolution," 7 July 2018 Throughout, Hamlin incorporated her own air, the worldly taste of someone who has appeared in advertising campaigns and walked the runways for Tommy Hilfiger and Dolce & Gabbana while still in her teens. — Olivia Martin, Town & Country, "Delilah Belle Hamlin's Luxurious Dorm Room is a Tribeca Apartment," 28 June 2018 Federer exudes worldly charm, and Nadal melts your heart with his profound humility. — Andrew Lawrence, The Atlantic, "What’s Going on With Novak Djokovic?," 30 June 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'worldly.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.