The word earthling refers to a being of terrestrial or terran origin, usually off Earth. It was coined by science fiction writers to express a disdainful or patronizing tone used by aliens towards creatures from Earth (usually in reference to humans). The suffix "-ling", as in "sapling", usually implies an immature creature.

Earthling is the title of a David Bowie album made in the late 1990s. The cover has a picture of David Bowie seen from behind wearing a Union Jack suit.