Synonyms of earthly

earthly

adjective

ˈərth-lē 

as in temporal

having to do with life on earth especially as opposed to that in heaven

a sermon against our obsession with earthly pursuits

Synonyms & Similar Words

• temporal
• mundane
• terrestrial
• physical
• animal
• bodily
• worldly
• earthbound
• sublunary
• corporeal
• carnal
• fleshly
• terrene
• daily
• corporal
• material
• earthborn
• diurnal
• unspiritual
• anthropocentric
• anthropic

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• heavenly
• celestial
• unearthly
• spiritual
• metaphysical
• divine
• religious
• supernal
• unworldly
• sacred
• nontemporal
• utopian
• devotional
• supernatural
• transcendent
• transcendental
• empyrean
• empyreal
• ethereal
• Elysian
• otherworldly
• extraterrestrial
• unearthly

Synonym Chooser

How is the word earthly distinct from other similar adjectives?

The words mundane and worldly are common synonyms of earthly. While all three words 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

When is mundane a more appropriate choice than earthly?

In some situations, the words mundane and earthly are roughly equivalent. However, mundane suggests reference to the immediate and practical.

a mundane discussion of finances

How are the words worldly and mundane related as synonyms of earthly?

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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of earthly

Sugar’s purpose in this earthly life — to reunite lost families in the City of Angels — is crumbling under the maddening impossibility of convicting a policeman of a crime in a world where the crime is the point. — Andy Andersen, Vulture, 24 July 2026

Conjuring fantasies is one of humanity’s most ancient arts — a sacred creative practice — but without earthly rooting, the symphony is incomplete. — Goth Shakira, Los Angeles Times, 23 July 2026

The actual viewing success will depend more on earthly considerations, however, including cloud cover and the extent of light pollution. — Sharmila Kuthunur, Space.com, 6 July 2026

Khamenei, who led the Islamic Republic for 37 years out of its 47-year history, is regarded by many supporters as the earthly representative of the Hidden Imam, the 12th imam who, according to Shi’ite belief, disappeared in the ninth century. — Miranda Jeyaretnam, Time, 3 July 2026