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Fleshly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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fleshly

[หˆflษ›สƒli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

physical desire

Relating to or concerned with the physical or bodily appetites; carnal.

Synonyms

carnal, physical, sensual.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fleshly

Use in a context referring to physical desires or earthly matters, often with a negative connotation.

  • He couldn't resist his fleshly appetites.
  • Fleshly temptations are hard to overcome.
carnal

Applies to physical pleasures or desires, especially those that are sexual in nature. It often carries a strong negative or sinful implication.

  • He was driven by carnal desires.
  • Carnal instincts can overshadow rational thinking.
sensual

Describes pleasures or experiences that are gratifying to the senses, often with a sexual undertone but not necessarily negative.

  • The music created a sensual atmosphere.
  • She wore a dress that accentuated her sensual beauty.
physical

Used in a broad sense to refer to anything related to the body or material objects, without specific moral judgment.

  • He engaged in physical exercise every day.
  • The physical evidence was crucial in the investigation.

Examples of usage

  • He found it difficult to resist his fleshly desires.
  • The novel explores the conflict between spiritual and fleshly pleasures.
Context #2 | Adjective

worldly possessions

Relating to material or worldly things; concerned with physical rather than spiritual or intellectual matters.

Synonyms

material, temporal, worldly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fleshly

Refers to things related to the human body or physical pleasures, often with a negative connotation when talking about indulgence.

  • He struggled with fleshly desires that distracted him from his studies
material

Refers to physical objects or possessions, and often contrasts with spiritual or non-physical aspects.

  • In modern society, people are often overly focused on material wealth
worldly

Describes things related to the material world, often implying a focus on mundane or secular aspects of life.

  • She renounced worldly pleasures to live a life of simplicity and meditation
temporal

Related to time or worldly life as opposed to eternal or spiritual matters. Typically contrasts with spiritual or eternal.

  • He had to balance temporal responsibilities with his spiritual commitments

Examples of usage

  • She was more interested in accumulating fleshly possessions than spiritual wealth.
  • The pursuit of fleshly pleasures can lead to emptiness and dissatisfaction.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • In many philosophical discussions, the term contrasts the physical body with the spiritual or intellectual self.
  • Various philosophical teachings, such as Gnosticism, view 'fleshly' desires as distractions from true spiritual enlightenment.

Literature

  • In literature, authors often use 'fleshly' to describe characters driven by physical desires, enhancing themes of temptation and morality.
  • Famous works, like those of John Milton, explore the tension between the fleshly and spiritual realms, particularly in 'Paradise Lost'.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In some cultures, 'fleshly' desires are seen as natural, while in others, they are viewed with caution, emphasizing the balance between body and spirit.
  • Many religions teach about managing fleshly desires, advocating for moderation and moral considerations.

Psychology

  • Psychological theories often differentiate between physical needs (like hunger and sex) and higher-order needs (like love and belonging).
  • The term relates to discussions around human behavior, where fleshly needs may influence decisions and relationships.

Origin of 'fleshly'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'fleshclic', which combines 'flesh' referring to the body and 'lic' meaning 'like' or 'of the nature of'.
  • Fleshly has been used in the English language since at least the 14th century.

The word 'fleshly' originated from the Middle English 'flesshly', derived from the Old English 'flวฃsclic', meaning 'of the flesh'. It has been used in English literature since the 14th century to describe things relating to the physical body or worldly matters.

See also: flesh.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,048, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.