Meaning & Definition of word "Terrestrial"
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Terrestrial
/təˈrɛstrɪəl/
noun:
- 1. a terrestrial plant or animal.
- Example: The biologist specialized in studying terrestrial creatures in their habitats.
adjective:
- 1. relating to the earth or land; pertaining to the surface of the earth.
- Example: The terrestrial environment is home to a diverse range of species.
- 2. having characteristics of land as opposed to water.
- Example: Terrestrial animals, such as lions and elephants, thrive in their natural habitats.
- 3. of or relating to the planet Earth.
- Example: The terrestrial ecosystem is crucial for maintaining biodiversity.
- 4. pertaining to or representing the world as opposed to the celestial.
- Example: The novel explores terrestrial themes of love, loss, and humanity.
Etymology
From Latin 'terrestris', from 'terra' meaning 'earth'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
terrestrial planet:
A planet that is composed mainly of silicate rocks or metals and has a relatively solid surface.
terrestrial radiation:
Radiation emitted from the Earth’s surface due to the absorption of solar radiation.
Related Words
terra:
Latin word for earth.
terran:
An inhabitant of Earth.
Slang Meanings of terrestrial
Meaning: Relatable or down-to-earth.
Example Sentence: He's so terrestrial; he just gets people.
Meaning: Ordinary, not special.
Example Sentence: That movie was kind of terrestrial; nothing exciting happened.