Earthbound means confined to or unable to leave the Earth. When astronauts prepare for a mission to the International Space Station, they're no longer earthbound: they'll float in space, 250 miles above the planet's surface. But most of us remain earthbound our entire lives, kept on the ground by gravity and the limits of current technology.

The word often suggests being stuck or limited when you'd rather soar free. A bird with an injured wing is temporarily earthbound, grounded when it should be flying. In stories, earthbound characters might dream of adventure among the stars while dealing with everyday problems like homework and chores.

Sometimes earthbound describes someone who's very practical and focused on ordinary concerns rather than imagination or big dreams. If your friend only cares about what's for lunch while you're wondering about life on other planets, you might think of them as more earthbound. The word can also describe spiritual beings or ghosts supposedly trapped on Earth instead of moving on to whatever comes next.

When you feel earthbound, you're aware of limits: gravity keeping your feet on the ground, daily routines keeping you from adventure, or practical concerns preventing you from chasing wilder dreams.