worldly
/ˈwɜː(ɹ)ldli/ · world·ly
adjective
- Concerned with human or earthly matters, physical as opposed to spiritual. She had a worldly outlook, focusing on practical concerns rather than spiritual ones.
- Concerned with secular rather than sacred matters. His worldly interests kept him away from church politics.
- Sophisticated, especially because of surfeit; versed in the ways of the world. The seasoned diplomat was worldly and knew how to navigate any negotiation.
adverb
- In a worldly manner. He traveled the globe and spoke worldly, impressing the locals.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Did you know? The word appears in Shakespeare's 'Hamlet' (Act I, Scene 5) where the ghost warns of worldly concerns distracting from the afterlife.