ethereal
Say it: ih-THEER-ee-ul /ɪˈθɪəriəl/ · adjective
What “ethereal” means
So light and delicate that it seems from another world.
More precisely: So light and delicate that it seems too perfect for this world.
Example: “Her voice sounded ethereal echoing through the empty cathedral.”
When to use it
For beauty, music or scenery that feels delicate, dreamlike and almost beyond ordinary life.
Similar words
otherworldly, delicate, heavenly
Where it comes from
Greek aithēr, the pure upper air breathed by the gods.
Quick check
A dancer seems to float through pale mist, looking delicate and almost otherworldly. How would you describe the scene?
earthy or ethereal?
Show the answer
ethereal
Learn 5 new words a day in Kinquire. Each with a picture, how to say it, an example and a quick check, then spaced review so you actually keep them. Free to start.
Learn “ethereal”