Epicurean: meaning, definitions and examples

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Epicurean

 

[ ˌɛpɪˈkjʊərɪən ]

Noun / Adjective
Context #1 | Noun

philosophy

A follower or student of the Greek philosopher Epicurus, who advocated the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain as the highest good.

Synonyms

hedonist, pleasure-seeker.

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Word Description / Examples
Epicurean

Used to describe someone who has refined tastes, especially in food and drink, and enjoys high-quality and luxurious experiences.

  • John's epicurean tastes meant he always chose the finest wines for his cellar
hedonist

Refers to someone who prioritizes pleasure as the most important goal in life, often focusing on sensual pleasures. This word can sometimes carry a negative connotation, implying selfish or excessive behavior.

  • The hedonist lifestyle of the celebrity always made headlines, filled with extravagant parties and indulgent vacations
pleasure-seeker

Describes someone who seeks pleasure and enjoyment in various aspects of life without the specific connotation of refined tastes. It is a more general and neutral term.

  • As a pleasure-seeker, Maria spent her weekends traveling to new places and trying exciting activities

Examples of usage

  • Epicureans believed that the highest pleasure was the absence of pain.
  • Many modern thinkers have been influenced by Epicurean philosophy.
Context #2 | Adjective

relating to pleasure

Devoted to the pursuit of pleasure, especially to the enjoyment of good food and comfort.

Synonyms

indulgent, luxurious.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
Epicurean

Useful when describing someone who seeks fine food and drink, focusing on pleasure and sensory enjoyment.

  • He's an epicurean, always searching for the best wines and gourmet meals
luxurious

Ideal for describing something that is extremely comfortable, elegant, and often expensive.

  • They stayed in a luxurious hotel with marble bathrooms and ocean views
indulgent

Best for situations where someone is giving in to their desires or treating themselves, often excessively.

  • She had an indulgent day at the spa, pampering herself with every available service

Examples of usage

  • She had an epicurean taste for fine wine and gourmet cuisine.
  • The hotel offered an epicurean experience with its luxurious spa and gourmet restaurant.

Translations

Translations of the word "Epicurean" in other languages:

🇵🇹 epicurista

🇮🇳 एपिक्यूरियन (Epikyūriyan)

🇩🇪 epikureisch

🇮🇩 epikurean

🇺🇦 епікурейський

🇵🇱 epikurejski

🇯🇵 エピキュリアン (Epikyurian)

🇫🇷 épicurien

🇪🇸 epicúreo

🇹🇷 epikürcü

🇰🇷 에피큐리언 (Epikyurion)

🇸🇦 أبيقوري (Abiquri)

🇨🇿 epikurejský

🇸🇰 epikurejský

🇨🇳 享乐主义者 (Xiǎnglè zhǔyì zhě)

🇸🇮 epikurejski

🇮🇸 epikúroskur

🇰🇿 эпикурейлік (Epikureylik)

🇬🇪 ეპიკურეელი (Epikureeli)

🇦🇿 epikürçü

🇲🇽 epicúreo

Etymology

The term 'Epicurean' comes from the ancient Greek philosopher Epicurus, who founded a school of philosophy in Athens in the 4th century BCE. Epicurus believed that the highest good was to seek pleasure and avoid pain, but he also emphasized the importance of moderation and simplicity. His teachings have had a lasting influence on Western philosophy and are often associated with the pursuit of pleasure and happiness.