Terrestrial might be a pretty down-to-earth word, but some of its relatives are out of this world. "Terrestrial" first appeared in English in the 15th century and derives from the Latin root terra, which …

TERRESTRIAL definition: pertaining to, consisting of, or representing the earth as distinct from other planets. See examples of terrestrial used in a sentence.

TERRESTRIAL definition: 1. relating to the earth 2. (of a planet) similar to Earth: 3. (of animals) living on the land…. Learn more.

terrestrial (təˈrɛstrɪəl) adj 1. of or relating to the earth 2. of or belonging to the land as opposed to the sea or air

A terrestrial animal or plant lives on land or on the ground rather than in the sea, in trees, or in the air.

Jan 20, 2026 · Adjective terrestrial (not comparable) Of, relating to, or inhabiting the land of the Earth or its inhabitants, earthly.

Definition of terrestrial adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.