Earth: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to specifically refer to the planet on which we live, often as a proper noun.

• Earth is the third planet from the Sun
• Astronauts dream of exploring beyond Earth

Used to refer to the Earth in a more human-centered, cultural, or social sense.

• People from all over the world gathered for the event
• Technology has changed the way we see the world

Used to emphasize the shape of the planet or to refer to the world in a more abstract, often scientific or educational sense.

• The classroom had a globe on the desk
• Climate changes affect the entire globe

Used when discussing celestial bodies in general, often in a scientific or astronomical context.

• Mars is the fourth planet from the Sun
• Scientists are searching for life on other planets

General term for the planet as a whole or the soil. Used in both scientific and everyday contexts.

• The Earth is the third planet from the sun.
• He dug into the earth to plant the seed.

Refers to any loose soil, particularly when it is not clean. Often used in a negative context such as unclean or messy situations.

• Her shoes were covered in dirt after the hike.
• He dusted the dirt off the old book.

Can mean the surface of the earth or the solid surface beneath you, usually outdoors. Used in both literal and figurative senses.

• She sat on the ground to take a break.
• They are building the foundation into the ground.

Refers to a large area of the earth's surface that is not covered by water. Often used in discussions related to property, geography, or farming.

• They bought some land in the countryside.
• The plane finally landed on solid land.

To cover or conceal something with soil or dirt, commonly used in gardening or agriculture.

• The gardener earthed the potatoes to protect them from frost.
• He earthed the plant to help it grow better.

To place (a dead body) in the ground, also used metaphorically to mean hiding something completely. Can have a solemn tone.

• They decided to bury the time capsule under the old oak tree.
• She couldn't bury the painful memories of her past.

To bury a body formally, often used in legal or official contexts, typically implying a respectful ceremony.

• The soldier was interred with full military honors.
• They will inter the remains in the family plot.

To place a dead body in a tomb, usually implying a more formal or grand burial. Can be used metaphorically to mean trapping something permanently.

• The ancient king was entombed with his treasures.
• The snowstorm entombed the entire village.