Sybarite

[ sib-uh-rahyt ]

noun

1. (usually lowercase) a person devoted to luxury and pleasure.

   Synonyms: sensualist

2. an inhabitant of Sybaris.

sybarite

/ ˈsɪbəˌraɪt; ˌsɪbəˈrɪtɪk /

noun

1. sometimes capital a devotee of luxury and the sensual vices

adjective

1. luxurious; sensuous

Derived Forms

• ˌsybaˈritically, adverb
• ˈsybaritism, noun
• sybaritic, adjective

Other Words From

• syb·a·rit·ism [sib, -, uh, -rahy-tiz-, uh, m], noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of Sybarite¹

1590–1600; < Latin Sybarīta < Greek Sybarī́tēs. See Sybaris, -ite ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of Sybarite¹

C16: from Latin Sybarīta, from Greek Subaritēs inhabitant of Sybaris

Example Sentences

“Spa Sybarite” is a three-minute film by Joshua Ashish Dawson, a 32-year-old Angeleno who describes himself as a “world builder” and much of his work as “speculative climate futures.”

From New York Times

At “Spa Sybarite,” the voice-over goes on, guests are offered “an assortment of scientifically tested customized treatments to help your body condition itself to the environmental despair that faces our planet.”

From New York Times

His invention of a white, presumably wealthy protagonist in “Spa Sybarite” raises the question of who has access to wellness, not to mention basic heath care.

From New York Times

As a dreamy soundtrack plays in the background, she arrives at “Spa Sybarite,” where futuristic stone treatment pods hover on stilts above a desert landscape.

From New York Times

The conceit for “Spa Sybarite” is both slightly absurd and eminently believable.

From New York Times