terrestrially
|ter-res-tri-al-ly|
🇺🇸
/təˈrɛstriəli/
🇬🇧
/təˈrɛstrɪəli/
(terrestrial)
earth-related
Etymology
'terrestrially' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'terrestris,' where 'terra' meant 'earth' and English '-ly' forms an adverb.
'terrestris' changed through Old French 'terrestre' and Middle English 'terrestre/terrestrial,' and eventually became the modern English word 'terrestrially' by adding the adverbial suffix '-ly.'
Initially, it meant 'of the earth; earthly,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'in an Earth- or land-based manner.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
in a way that relates to the Earth or to land; on or of the ground (as opposed to aquatic, aerial, or celestial contexts).
The plants grow terrestrially in this habitat rather than on trees or rocks.
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Adverb 2
using land-based or Earth-based systems or pathways (e.g., broadcasting or communication), rather than space-based ones.
The signal was transmitted terrestrially across the region.
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Last updated: 2025/08/11 05:14