Epicurean: meaning, definitions and examples
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Epicurean
[ ˌɛpɪˈkjʊərɪən ]
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.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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Epicurean |
Used to describe someone who has refined tastes, especially in food and drink, and enjoys high-quality and luxurious experiences.
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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.
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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.
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Examples of usage
- Epicureans believed that the highest pleasure was the absence of pain.
- Many modern thinkers have been influenced by Epicurean philosophy.
relating to pleasure
Devoted to the pursuit of pleasure, especially to the enjoyment of good food and comfort.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
Epicurean |
Useful when describing someone who seeks fine food and drink, focusing on pleasure and sensory enjoyment.
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luxurious |
Ideal for describing something that is extremely comfortable, elegant, and often expensive.
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indulgent |
Best for situations where someone is giving in to their desires or treating themselves, often excessively.
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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.