earthy

[ ur-thee ]

adjective

, earth·i·er, earth·i·est.

1. of the nature of or consisting of earth or soil.
2. characteristic of earth:

   an earthy smell.

3. realistic; practical.
4. coarse or unrefined:

   an earthy sense of humor.

   Synonyms: rough, lusty

   Antonyms: refined, genteel

5. direct; robust; unaffected:

   an earthy, generous woman.

6. (of a mineral) having a dull luster and rough to the touch.
7. Archaic. worldly; pertaining to the earth.

earthy

/ ˈɜːθɪ /

adjective

1. of, composed of, or characteristic of earth
2. robust, lusty, or uninhibited
3. unrefined, coarse, or crude
4. an archaic word for worldly
5. electrical engineering on the earthed side of an electrical circuit, but not necessarily with a direct current connection to earth

Derived Forms

• ˈearthiness, noun
• ˈearthily, adverb

Other Words From

• earthi·ly adverb
• earthi·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of earthy¹

First recorded in 1350–1400, earthy is from the Middle English word erthy. See earth, -y ¹

Example Sentences

As it ferments, N. intermedia takes on an "earthy, floral quality," von Hagn noted, and cooking it provides "a cheesy, deeply savory, mushroom-y flavor and aroma."

From Salon

The brackish, mineral flavors of the oysters are complemented perfectly by the tangy, nutty, earthy artichokes.

From Salon

The traditionally Mexican distillate is derived from the agave plant, often using methods that have been honed across generations, with varieties that impart flavors ranging from smoky to earthy and acidic.

From Los Angeles Times

"I wouldn't want to drink water that has an earthy and musty taste, but it is safe," she added.

From BBC

He said it also took some work to mask the earthy smell of the insects.

From BBC

Related Words

• down-to-earth
• folksy
• funky
• homey
• simple