earthy

adjective

ˈər-thē  -t͟hē 

earthier; earthiest

1

a

: of, relating to, or consisting of earth

earthy creatures like worms

b

: suggestive of earth (as in texture, odor, or color)

an earthy yellow

c

: rough, coarse, or plain in taste

earthy flavors

2

a

archaic : earthly, worldly

b

: characteristic of or associated with mortal life on the earth

prefers earthy to ethereal themes

3

: suggestive of plain or poor people or their ways: such as

a

: practical, down-to-earth

earthy problems of daily life

b

: crude, gross

earthy humor

c

: plain and simple in style : unsophisticated

earthy peasant cookery

earthy decor

earthiness noun

Synonyms

• earthlike
• loamy

Examples of earthy in a Sentence

a blend of earthy colors

The wine had an earthy flavor.

Critics were impressed by the movie's earthy realism.

food made with simple, earthy ingredients

Recent Examples on the Web

Of course, different fruits and vegetables will provide different tastes—green apples are tart and fresh, but try celery for an earthy sip or kiwi for tropical flavors. —Jillian Dara, Forbes, 13 Mar. 2025

Shallow vases of fresh clover can be displayed on kitchen counters and tables, offering an earthy interpretation of the iconic shamrock. —Cori Sears, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 Mar. 2025

The figurines are wrapped in an earthy faux moss flocking and measure up to 5.5 inches tall. —Maggie Horton, People.com, 12 Mar. 2025

The energizing effects of Jack Herer complement the rich, bold flavors of a strong coffee, while the earthy tones of the strain bring out the complex flavors of dark chocolate. —Matt Rozo, The Mercury News, 12 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

earthy

adjective

ˈər-thē  -t͟hē 

earthier; earthiest

1

: consisting of or resembling earth

an earthy flavor

2

a

: suggestive of plain or poor people or their ways : practical sense 4, down-to-earth

earthy problems of everyday life

b

: not polite : crude

earthy humor

earthiness noun