WORLDLY Synonyms: 95 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'worldly' distinct from other similar adjectives?

The words earthly and mundane are common synonyms of worldly . While all three words mean "belonging to or characteristic of the earth," 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

Q: When could 'earthly' be used to replace 'worldly'?

Although the words earthly and worldly have much in common, earthly often implies a contrast with what is heavenly or spiritual. // abandoned earthly concerns and entered a convent

Q: In what contexts can 'mundane' take the place of 'worldly'?

While in some cases nearly identical to worldly , mundane suggests reference to the immediate and practical. // a mundane discussion of finances

worldly

adjective

ˈwər(-ə)ld-lē

Definition of worldly next

as in cosmopolitan

having a wide and refined knowledge of the world especially from personal experience she returned from her year as an exchange student a much more worldly person

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in mundane

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word worldly distinct from other similar adjectives?

The words earthly and mundane are common synonyms of worldly. While all three words mean "belonging to or characteristic of the earth," 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

When could earthly be used to replace worldly?

Although the words earthly and worldly have much in common, earthly often implies a contrast with what is heavenly or spiritual.

abandoned earthly concerns and entered a convent

In what contexts can mundane take the place of worldly?

While in some cases nearly identical to worldly, mundane suggests reference to the immediate and practical.

a mundane discussion of finances

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of worldly Genevieve: Another très French name pick, Genevieve feels worldly and glamorous. —

Kara Nesvig, Parents, 19 Dec. 2024 Workers are supposed to shun worldly possessions, relying on followers for food, shelter and transportation. —

CBS News, 16 Dec. 2024 But while most of our palates have broadened far past Western comforts, room service menus—even those found in the poshest properties—haven’t adapted much to our worldly appetites. —

Katie Chang, Forbes, 1 Oct. 2024 But in the past decade, Chinese auto designs have developed their own, more worldly design vernacular, says Brenden Donnelly, who worked in design and brand management at the Chinese automakers Geely and Lynk & Co before founding his own startup. —

Aarian Marshall, WIRED, 12 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for worldly

Recent Examples of Synonyms for worldly

Adjective

Whether rustic beige or cosmopolitan gray, these card cases and billfolds are sure to put a smile on his face.

— Ian Malone, Vogue, 18 Jan. 2025
Through the brand’s immersive experience, Laminar is made for those who love experiences — whether cultural or with nature — and emphasizes the concept of community on both a local and cosmopolitan scale.

— Fairchild Studio, WWD, 17 Jan. 2025