earth·en \ˈərth]ən, ˈə̄th], ˈəith], -th]\adjective alsoearth·ern\]ə(r)n\ Etymology:earthen from Middle English erthen, from erthe earth + -en; earthern alteration of earthen — more at earth I 1. a.: made of earth < an earthen dam > < earthen walls rammed firm > b.: made of fired clay < glazed earthen tiles > < an earthen jug > 2.: characteristic of earth especially in human or mortal quality : earthly