Unworldly Meaning: Definition and Examples
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unworldly
[ΚnΛwΙΛrldli ]
Definition
general description
The term 'unworldly' describes someone or something that is not influenced by the concerns or issues of the world, often characterized by a spiritual or naive nature. It can imply a lack of practicality or sophistication in worldly matters.
Synonyms
dreamy, idealistic, innocent, naive.
Examples of usage
- Her unworldly perspective made her an excellent artist.
- He was often considered unworldly, lost in thoughts of higher ideals.
- The unworldly nature of their love seemed untouched by reality.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In many works of fiction, characters described as unworldly often possess unique insights or magical abilities that contrast with the society around them.
- The concept is utilized in science fiction and fantasy genres to depict beings from other realms or dimensions, emphasizing their disconnect from mundane reality.
Psychology
- People considered unworldly may demonstrate higher levels of creativity and unconventional thinking, often leading to innovative ideas.
- Psychologists suggest that an unworldly mindset can enhance problem-solving abilities by allowing individuals to think outside societal norms.
Pop Culture
- Many famous artists and musicians, such as Frida Kahlo and David Bowie, were labeled as unworldly due to their avant-garde styles and ideas that challenged conventional beliefs.
- Films often portray unworldly characters as the 'outsider' or 'dreamer', such as E.T. from 'E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial', reinforcing the theme of belonging and difference.
Philosophy
- Philosophers like Immanuel Kant discussed concepts of the 'unworldly' in relation to ideas that transcend physical experience, linking it to metaphysics and spirituality.
- The idea of being unworldly can also represent a detachment from material desires, seeking deeper existential or spiritual truths.
Origin of 'unworldly'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'unworldly' combines 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'worldly' from the Old English 'weorold,' which referred to earthly life.
- It first appeared in the English language in the early 17th century, reflecting a time when spirituality and otherworldliness were of great interest.
The word 'unworldly' is formed by the prefix 'un-', meaning 'not', and 'worldly', which derives from the Old English 'weoruld', referring to the physical realm and material concerns. The evolution of the term reflects a duality in human experience, where 'worldly' pertains to the tangible, practical aspects of life, while 'unworldly' signifies a departure from these concerns toward a more introspective, often spiritual viewpoint. The usage of 'unworldly' gained traction in the 19th century as literature and philosophy began to explore themes of transcendence and the divine, marking a cultural shift towards valuing inner wisdom over material success. This shift saw figures like transcendentalists in America advocating for an unworldly approach to life, emphasizing intuition and connection with nature over conventional societal values.