Unearthly: meaning, definitions and examples

The word 'unearthly' dates back to the early 17th century, originating from a combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the word 'earthly' which relates to the earth and its worldly attributes. In its formation, 'earthly' drew from the Old English 'eorþlic', meaning 'of the earth', which further evolved from 'eorþe', the Old English term for 'earth'. The prefix 'un-' has been a significant modifier in English, utilized to denote negation or absence. The growth of the term 'unearthly' emerged as concepts of the unknown, mystical, and spiritual began to permeate literature and common language, adapting over the centuries to reflect human fascination with the supernatural and the divine. By the Victorian era, 'unearthly' had solidified its association with aesthetics and the sublime, commonly appearing in poetry and prose to invoke imagery beyond the tangible and the ordinary, often suggesting a beauty that feels alien or transcendent.

Positioned at #22,523, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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• 22520 multiplex
• 22521 touchstone
• 22522 grotto
• 22523 unearthly
• 22524 photometer
• 22525 avow
• 22526 engrossing
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