Hedonist: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used to describe someone whose primary goal in life is to pursue pleasure and self-gratification. It's a neutral term but can carry a slight connotation of self-indulgence.

• John is a hedonist who lives for fine dining and luxurious vacations.
• As a hedonist, she believes that life is meant to be enjoyed to the fullest.

This term is used to describe someone who actively seeks out pleasurable experiences and activities. It is quite direct and straightforward, usually with a neutral or slightly superficial undertone.

• As a pleasure-seeker, Tom spends his weekends at parties and music festivals.
• The city is filled with pleasure-seekers looking for their next thrill.

This word is often used in a more sophisticated or somewhat old-fashioned context to describe someone who loves luxury and indulgence. It has a positive or at least neutral connotation, often implying a refined taste.

• Known as a sybarite, she spends her days indulging in gourmet food and high fashion.
• The sybarite wouldn't settle for anything less than the best wine at the feast.

This word is used to describe someone who is devoted to sensual pleasures. It has a slightly archaic tone and can sometimes imply a level of decadence or excess.

• The castle was designed for a voluptuary, with every room dedicated to comfort and pleasure.
• As a voluptuary, he is always in search of the most pleasurable and luxurious experiences.

Typically used to describe someone who believes that pleasure is the highest good and purpose of life. It can be used in both neutral and mildly negative contexts.

• He considered himself a hedonist, always searching for the next delightful experience.
• Living life as a hedonist, she never missed an opportunity to indulge in luxury and comfort.

This term is more straightforward and less philosophical than 'hedonist'. It describes someone who actively looks for enjoyable activities, usually used in neutral contexts.

• Although he worked hard during the week, he was a pleasure-seeker on weekends, attending parties and trying new restaurants.
• As a pleasure-seeker, she planned her vacations around exciting and fun activities.

A highly sophisticated and somewhat archaic term, often used to describe someone who is devoted to luxury and pleasure. It has a cultured, historic connotation.

• The extravagant banquet appealed to the sybarites of the city, who reveled in its opulence.
• Known for being a sybarite, he decorated his home with lavish furniture and rare artifacts.

This word has a slightly negative connotation, suggesting excess and indulgence in sensual pleasures. It is often used to criticize someone's lifestyle.

• His friends disapproved of his voluptuary habits, which they felt were excessive and shallow.
• Living as a voluptuary, she often ignored her responsibilities in favor of fleeting pleasures.