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Definition of worldly

worldly

/ˈwɜːrld.li/
world · ly
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worldly Lexical Profile

worldly Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Relating to or consisting of physical, material, or secular things rather than spiritual or religious matters.

Example

"The monk renounced all his worldly possessions to live a life of quiet contemplation."

2

Experienced, sophisticated, and practical in the ways of human society and affairs.

Example

"Years of living abroad had made her a worldly and perceptive diplomat."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for worldly

• Nearby Words

worldbeater
worldbuilding
worldliness
worldly
worldview
worldwide
worm

Word Origin & Etymology

From Old English 'woruldlic', meaning 'earthly, secular, or belonging to this world', formed from 'woruld' (world) and '-lic' (-ly). The sense of 'sophisticated and experienced in the ways of society' developed in the 16th century.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Worldly. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/worldly
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