Definition of "in the world" in English

Prepositional phrase

1. An intensifier, often used after an interrogative word.

   • What in the world was that?
   • Who in the world would want to do that?

2. Used for emphasis after a qualified noun.

   • the happiest girl in the world

3. In this present age; here and now. Characteristic of wider society; worldly.

4. Characteristic of wider society; worldly.