epicurean: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowFormal, literary
Quick answer
What does “epicurean” mean?
Devoted to sensual enjoyment, particularly from fine food and drink.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Devoted to sensual enjoyment, particularly from fine food and drink.
Pertaining to the philosophy of Epicurus, which advocates pleasure as the highest good, but often associated with luxury and hedonism.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in spelling or pronunciation; usage is consistent across both varieties.
Connotations
In both, it conveys a focus on luxury and pleasure, with potential negative connotations of extravagance.
Frequency
Equally low in frequency, primarily found in literary, philosophical, or descriptive contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “epicurean” in a Sentence
As adjective: + noun (e.g., epicurean delights)As noun: article + epicurean (e.g., an epicurean)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “epicurean” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- His epicurean tastes are evident in his wine collection.
- The hotel offers an epicurean experience for its guests.
American English
- She has epicurean preferences when it comes to dining.
- The epicurean banquet featured delicacies from around the world.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare; may appear in marketing for luxury products or high-end services.
Academic
Used in philosophy, history, or cultural studies when discussing Epicureanism or hedonistic theories.
Everyday
Uncommon; occasionally used to describe someone with refined tastes in food and drink.
Technical
In philosophy, specifically refers to the doctrines of Epicurus or his followers.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “epicurean”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “epicurean”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “epicurean”
- Misspelling as 'epicurian' or 'epicureian'.
- Using it to mean only 'food lover' without acknowledging the philosophical or luxurious aspects.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It can be either, depending on context. It may praise refined taste or criticize excessive indulgence.
Yes, it can refer to a person who pursues pleasure, especially in food and drink.
'Hedonistic' is broader and often more negative, while 'epicurean' specifically relates to the pleasures of eating and drinking, and can imply refinement.
In American English, it is typically pronounced as /ˌɛp.ɪ.kjʊˈri.ən/ with stress on the third syllable.
Devoted to sensual enjoyment, particularly from fine food and drink.
Epicurean is usually formal, literary in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “epicurean pleasures”
- “live like an epicurean”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of Epicurus, the philosopher who valued pleasure, so epicurean relates to enjoying luxury and fine things.
Conceptual Metaphor
LIFE IS A FEAST for the epicurean.
Practice
Quiz
What is the core meaning of 'epicurean'?