epicurean

[ ep-i-kyoo-ree-uhn, -kyoor-ee- ]

adjective

1. fond of or adapted to luxury or indulgence in sensual pleasures; having luxurious tastes or habits, especially in eating and drinking.
2. fit for an epicure:

   epicurean delicacies.

   Synonyms: rich, deluxe, lavish, luxury, gourmet

   Antonyms: frugal, modest, plain, simple, austere

3. (initial capital letter) of, relating to, or characteristic of Epicurus or Epicureanism.

noun

1. an epicure.
2. (initial capital letter) a disciple of Epicurus.

Epicurean

¹

/ ˌɛpɪkjʊˈriːən /

adjective

1. of or relating to the philosophy of Epicurus

noun

1. a follower of the philosophy of Epicurus

epicurean

²

/ ˌɛpɪkjʊˈriːən /

adjective

1. devoted to sensual pleasures, esp food and drink; hedonistic
2. suitable for an epicure

   an epicurean feast

noun

1. an epicure; gourmet

Derived Forms

• ˌEpicuˈreanˌism, noun
• ˌepicuˈreanˌism, noun

Other Words From

• nonep·i·cu·rean adjective noun
• unep·i·cu·rean adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of epicurean¹

1350–1400; Middle English Epicurien < Latin Epicūrē ( us ) of Epicurus (< Greek Epikoúreios ) + -an

Example Sentences

As U.S. eaters' tastes become more adventurous, sampling avocados of different sizes, shapes, textures, tastes and origins could become a decision that's both epicurean and environmentally conscious.

From Salon

Vegetable protein is the thing; and of course athletes have to perform in a country of a thousand epicurean delights that are no-noes to their exacting nutritionists.

From New York Times

The official Door County website calls them a "one-of-a-kind epicurean event," noting some other sides that aren't as often mentioned, from lemon wedges, coleslaw and bread to "fresh-baked Door County cherry pie" for dessert.

From Salon

While downtown can be a bit sleepy in winter, you’ll discover a bookstore, cafes, a fun vintage flea market, public art, a Mediterranean epicurean market, independent restaurants and the recently restored Admiral Theatre.

From Seattle Times

This fascinating collection of essays is part memoir, part cookbook and part epicurean treatise — and employs Nigerian cuisine as a framework for analyzing Nigerian society, culture and folklore.

From New York Times