The word earthling refers to an inhabitant of Earth. It has been used since the 16th century primarily in the sense of mortal human as opposed to God or deitiesOED, s.v. earthling, n.², but in the 20th century began to be used by science fiction writers to express a disdainful or patronizing tone used by aliens towards creatures from Earth (usually in reference to humans).

See also

• Terran

References