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earth

US //ˈɝθ// UK //ˈɜːθ// earth
  1. 1 the planet (n.)
    A2 Elementary

    the planet where humans live, the third planet from the sun.

    the third planet from the Sun in the solar system. Often capitalised when treated as a proper noun.

    Example

    From space, Earth looks like a beautiful blue and white marble.

    Example

    The satellite was designed to monitor changes in Earth's atmosphere over a ten-year period to track global warming trends.
  2. 2 soil (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    the substance on the surface of the ground in which plants grow.

    the loose surface material of the globe in which plants grow; soil or dirt.

    Example

    She filled the flower pots with rich brown earth before planting the seeds.

    Example

    The gardener turned the earth over with a spade to ensure the young saplings had enough oxygen for their roots.
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  1. 3 the ground (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    the land or the surface of the world, rather than the sea or sky.

    the solid surface of the world as distinguished from the surrounding water or air.

    Example

    The fallen leaves covered the earth like a thick orange carpet.

    Example

    After weeks at sea, the sailors were relieved to finally set foot on solid earth once again.
  2. 4 electrical connection (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate British English Technical Science

    a wire that connects an electrical machine to the ground for safety.

    a connection between an electrical circuit or device and the ground, serving as a safety return path.

    Example

    Make sure the green wire is connected to the earth for safety.

    Example

    The technician discovered that the fault was caused by a loose earth connection in the main circuit board.

    Usage

    In American English, 'ground' is used instead of 'earth' for this sense.
  3. 5 classical element (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Academic Religion

    one of the four basic parts of nature in old philosophy, along with air, fire, and water.

    one of the four classical elements in ancient and medieval philosophy.

    Example

    Ancient philosophers believed that everything was made of earth, air, fire, and water.

    Example

    In many esoteric traditions, the element of earth represents stability, physical form, and the material world.

  4. 6 to connect to ground (v.)
    C1 Advanced British English Technical Science

    to connect a piece of electrical equipment to the ground.

    to connect an electrical conductor or device to the earth. Transitive use.

    Example

    You must earth the metal casing of the lamp to prevent electric shocks.

    Example

    The building's lightning protection system is designed to earth the massive electrical discharge safely into the soil.
Origin

From Middle English erthe, from Old English eorþe, from Proto-Germanic erþō, from Proto-Indo-European h₁er- (“earth”).

Idioms14 entries

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