earthier; earthiest
Synonyms of earthynext
1
a
: of, relating to, or consisting of earth
earthy creatures like worms
b
: suggestive of earth (as in texture, odor, or color)
an earthy yellow
c
: rough, coarse, or plain in taste
earthy flavors
2
a
archaic : earthly, worldly
b
: characteristic of or associated with mortal life on the earth
prefers earthy to ethereal themes
3
: suggestive of plain or poor people or their ways: such as
a
: practical, down-to-earth
earthy problems of daily life
b
: crude, gross
earthy humor
c
: plain and simple in style : unsophisticated
earthy peasant cookery
earthy decor
4
informal : crunchy sense 2
Belly dance—big with earthy types in the '70s and early '80s—is once again hip …Valerie Berenyi
earthiness noun

Examples of earthy in a Sentence

a blend of earthy colors The wine had an earthy flavor. Critics were impressed by the movie's earthy realism. food made with simple, earthy ingredients
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Blackberry brings tartness, while bay leaves and cedarwood bring a distinctly earthy and woodsy scent. Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 31 July 2026 This results in a 92-proof gin with a pungent, piney nose, earthy zest, and creamy finish, perfect for classic cocktails. Brad Japhe, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026 The result is an oyster with a distinct earthy brine and mild sweetness, less salty than its East Coast cousins, and with a plump, meaty bite. Gabi De La Rosa, Southern Living, 29 July 2026 The new Nike Air Max 90 in Shadow Brown/Buff/Gum Light Brown appears tailor made for autumnal vibes with its drab, earthy palette of browns. Riley Jones, Footwear News, 26 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for earthy

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of earthy was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Earthy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/earthy. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

Kids Definition

earthier; earthiest
1
: consisting of or resembling earth
an earthy flavor
2
a
: suggestive of plain or poor people or their ways : practical sense 4, down-to-earth
earthy problems of everyday life
b
: not polite : crude
earthy humor
earthiness noun

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