Earth-bound

Earth-bound describes something confined to, restricted by, or closely related to the earth, both literally and figuratively. It can refer to physical objects or beings unable to leave the planet, or abstract concepts and ideas focused on practical, material concerns rather than spiritual or otherworldly pursuits. The term suggests a limitation or a focus on terrestrial existence, lacking aspiration or connection to anything beyond our planet's atmosphere. earth-bound can also imply a grounding in reality, a practicality, or a reliance on tangible aspects of life. This can signify a practicality sometimes lacking in aspiration, or a focus on tangible reality over flights of imagination.

Earth-bound meaning with examples

• The rocket's catastrophic failure ensured the crew remained tragically earth-bound, their dreams of exploring Mars shattered. The disaster highlighted the inherent dangers of space travel and the fragility of human ambition when confronted with the vastness of the universe. The wreckage served as a somber reminder of humanity’s physical limitations.
• Her meticulously planned life, consumed by daily routines and career advancement, felt increasingly earth-bound. She yearned for more excitement and meaning, missing out on creativity, wonder, and exploration. The perceived stability she pursued masked a growing sense of dissatisfaction, yearning for something less structured.
• Before airplanes, travel across continents was inherently earth-bound, dependent on ships, trains, or horseback. These methods were limited by distance, weather, and terrain. The journey's length and difficulty significantly impacted communication and cultural exchange, isolating societies.
• The novel explored the lives of earth-bound individuals struggling with the harsh realities of poverty and social inequality. Their experiences centered on survival and limited opportunity and provided a stark contrast to characters with privilege and opportunity, and demonstrated a need for reform.
• The artist's landscapes, with their rich, earthy tones and detailed depictions of rural life, were undeniably earth-bound. He focused on the concrete rather than the abstract, reflecting a reverence for the beauty and simplicity of the natural world, contrasting with his colleague's ethereal, otherworldly art.