Glutton: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used to describe someone who eats excessively and insatiably. It can also be used metaphorically to describe someone with a voracious appetite for anything, not just food. The term often has a negative connotation.

• He's such a glutton, he finished the entire cake by himself.
• Samantha has always been a glutton for punishment, taking on more work than she can handle.

Usually refers to someone who enjoys eating and knows a lot about good food and drink. It can be used both positively and negatively, but leans towards the positive, suggesting a refined palate and interest in high-quality food.

• As a true gourmand, she loves to explore fine dining restaurants.
• Mark's gourmand tendencies often lead him to search for the best wines to accompany his meals.

Refers to someone who habitually eats more than is healthy. This term is typically used in a more clinical or neutral context, such as when discussing eating habits or health issues.

• As an overeater, she struggled with weight issues for many years.
• Overeating can lead to serious health problems, including obesity.

Describes someone who eats more than they need to, often at the expense of others. This term has a clear negative connotation, making the person sound selfish or inconsiderate.

• John is such a greedy eater; he takes more than his fair share at every meal.
• Don't be a greedy eater, leave some food for the others.

This word is commonly used to describe someone who eats or consumes excessively and can also refer to someone who has an excessive craving for something. It often carries a negative connotation.

• He is a glutton for punishment, never knowing when to quit.
• During the holidays, she turns into a glutton, unable to resist the abundant food.

An 'enthusiast' is someone who shows intense and eager enjoyment, interest, or approval for a particular activity or subject. It is usually a positive term and suggests a lively and active interest.

• He's a car enthusiast who spends weekends working on his vintage collection.
• She is a gardening enthusiast, always experimenting with new plants and techniques.

A 'devotee' is someone who is very dedicated or loyal to a cause, person, or activity. It is a neutral term that simply indicates strong enthusiasm and commitment.

• She is a devotee of classical music, attending every concert in town.
• As a devotee of yoga, he practices it early every morning without fail.

A 'fanatic' is someone who shows extreme and excessive enthusiasm, often to the point of being obsessive. This term usually has a negative connotation, implying irrationality or overzealous behavior.

• He is a sports fanatic, never missing a game and always talking about his favorite teams.
• Her fanatic devotion to the band borders on obsession; she follows them to every concert.