Definition

The quality of being not influenced by the concerns of the world, often associated with a focus on spiritual or idealistic matters rather than practical or material ones.

Example

Her unworldliness made her an intriguing character in the story, as she often preferred books and nature over social gatherings.

Conversation

I was reading this book about different personalities and it mentioned unworldliness as a trait.

Really? That sounds interesting. What does it mean exactly?

It describes someone who is not very connected to the practical aspects of life.

Ah, I see! Sometimes that kind of unworldliness can be refreshing.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unworldliness → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "worldliness" (from "worldly" which comes from Old English "weorold", meaning the earthly or material world, combined with the suffix "-ness" which indicates a state or quality). The word "unworldliness" refers to the state of being not concerned with the material world or its affairs.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being combined with the 'state of being worldly' ('worldliness') to remember that 'unworldliness' means a lack of concern for worldly matters.

Visually Confused Words