Worldliest Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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worldliest

[หˆwษœหrldliษชst ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

general use

Worldliest refers to someone who is experienced, sophisticated, and influenced by worldly concerns rather than spiritual or idyllic considerations. This term often describes individuals who are preoccupied with materialism and the practical aspects of life. Such people tend to be aware of the realities of the world around them and act accordingly. In many cases, being worldliest can also imply a certain level of cynicism or realism in oneโ€™s outlook on life.

Synonyms

cosmopolitan, experienced, sophisticated, urbane, worldly.

Examples of usage

  • He became the most worldliest individual in the room, discussing politics and finance.
  • Her worldliest demeanor surprised the others at the retreat focused on spirituality.
  • Despite her wealth, she remained one of the most worldly people I know.
  • Travel has made him much more worldliest than he was in his youth.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Cultural Perspectives

  • In many cultures, individuals who have traveled and learned from different societies are highly respected and often seen as wise.
  • In literature, characters portrayed as worldly often possess a deep understanding of human nature and different cultures, making them valuable mentors.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that experiences, such as traveling, can enhance emotional intelligence and improve social skills.
  • Individuals who expose themselves to various cultures tend to be more open-minded and adaptable, traits linked to 'worldliness'.

Literature

  • Characters like Odysseus from Homer's 'The Odyssey' personify worldliness through their diverse adventures across different lands.
  • In contemporary novels, worldly characters often tackle complex moral issues, reflecting their rich life experiences.

Pop Culture

  • Reality TV shows that focus on travel often highlight contestants reflecting a worldly perspective, influencing viewers' understanding of different cultures.
  • Films with characters that travel extensively, like 'Eat Pray Love', emphasize the personal growth that comes from worldly experiences.

Origin of 'worldliest'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'worldly' comes from the Old English 'weorold,' which means 'age of man' and connects to human experiences.
  • Adding the suffix '-iest' makes it a superlative, indicating a person is the most knowledgeable or experienced in worldly matters.

The term 'worldly' originates from the Old English word 'weorold', a compound of 'wer' meaning man and 'ald' meaning age, which points to the notion of mankind's existence within the temporal realm. The word evolved through Middle English, retaining the sense of being related to the material or tangible world and the human experiences therein. This transition highlighted contrasts with spiritual or heavenly realms, thus leading to the derivation of 'worldliest' as a descriptor for those who embrace the tangible aspects of life over the ethereal. The modern use often reflects an awareness of the complexity of societal norms and material life, which can resonate with interpretations of cosmopolitanism and realism.