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Gluttony: meaning, definitions and examples

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gluttony

 

[ˈɡlʌtəni ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

sinful behavior

Gluttony is the act of overindulging in food and drink, often to the point of excess. It is considered one of the seven deadly sins in many religious traditions.

Synonyms

excessiveness, greediness, voracity.

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Word Description / Examples
gluttony

Gluttony is often used in moral or religious contexts to describe overindulgence in food or drink. It has a negative connotation and implies lack of self-control.

  • His gluttony at the buffet was shocking; he ate three plates of dessert alone.
  • In many religions, gluttony is considered a sin.
greediness

Greediness is used to describe a selfish desire for more of something, especially money or power. It has a highly negative connotation and implies a lack of concern for others.

  • His greediness caused him to betray his friends to gain more wealth.
  • The company's greediness led to unfair labor practices and low wages.
voracity

Voracity refers to an eager and insatiable appetite for food or knowledge. It is typically used in a more neutral or even positive context when describing someone's desire for learning, but negative when describing overconsumption of food.

  • Her voracity for books was astonishing; she read a new one every week.
  • His voracity at meals often left little for the rest of the family.
excessiveness

Excessiveness can be used in broader contexts beyond just eating, and it describes something that is more than necessary. It can refer to actions, emotions, or possessions and doesn't always carry a strongly negative connotation.

  • Her excessiveness in shopping led to a closet full of unworn clothes.
  • The excessiveness of the celebration was evident in the lavish decorations and numerous guests.

Examples of usage

  • His gluttony knew no bounds as he devoured the entire buffet in one sitting.
  • She felt guilty about her gluttony after eating a whole cake by herself.
  • Their gluttony for wealth led them to engage in unethical business practices.
  • Gluttony can be a difficult habit to break, especially for those with a love for food.
  • Overcoming gluttony requires self-discipline and moderation in eating habits.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'gluttire,' meaning 'to gulp down or swallow'.
  • It first appeared in English around the late 14th century, mainly in religious texts.
  • In Middle English, the term was often associated with excessive indulgence during feasts.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, gluttony is viewed as a vice, often depicted in literature and art.
  • The Seven Deadly Sins include gluttony, representing the moral failing of overindulgence.
  • Feasting rituals in cultures worldwide can sometimes reflect the balance between celebration and excess.

Psychology

  • Gluttony can sometimes be linked to emotional eating, where food is used to cope with feelings.
  • Studies suggest that overindulgence can lead to feelings of guilt or shame, impacting self-esteem.
  • The act of overeating may activate pleasure centers in the brain, making it a complex behavior to manage.

Literature

  • In Dante’s 'Inferno,' gluttons are punished in the third circle of Hell, emphasizing its moral implications.
  • Charles Dickens often critiqued gluttony and social excess in his portrayal of Victorian society.
  • In modern fiction, characters exhibiting gluttony may symbolize greed or lack of self-control, often resulting in comedic outcomes.

Health and Nutrition

  • Overeating can lead to various health issues such as obesity and related diseases.
  • Many health experts recommend mindful eating practices to avoid gluttony and enhance enjoyment of food.
  • There is a growing trend of anti-gluttony in wellness culture, emphasizing moderation and balance.

Translations

Translations of the word "gluttony" in other languages:

🇵🇹 gula

🇮🇳 पेटूपन

🇩🇪 Völlerei

🇮🇩 kerakusan

🇺🇦 ненажерливість

🇵🇱 obżarstwo

🇯🇵 大食い (おおぐい)

🇫🇷 gourmandise

🇪🇸 glotonería

🇹🇷 oburluk

🇰🇷 폭식 (폭식증)

🇸🇦 الشره

🇨🇿 obžerství

🇸🇰 obžerstvo

🇨🇳 暴食 (bàoshí)

🇸🇮 požrešnost

🇮🇸 græðgi

🇰🇿 ашқарақтық

🇬🇪 მომხვეჭელობა

🇦🇿 acgözlük

🇲🇽 glotonería

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,907, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.