Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Voluptuary Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿพ
Add to dictionary

voluptuary

[vษ™หˆlสŒptjสŠษ™ri ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

person who indulges in luxury and pleasure

A voluptuary is someone who loves luxury and pleasure, and often seeks out indulgence in sensual pleasures such as food, drink, and sex. Voluptuaries are known for their hedonistic lifestyles and their pursuit of physical gratification above all else.

Synonyms

pleasure-seeker, sensualist, sybarite.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
voluptuary

Used to describe someone who seeks luxury and pleasure, often prioritizing it above all else. This term can carry both neutral and slightly negative connotations, suggesting indulgence.

  • He lived as a voluptuary, spending every evening at lavish parties and feasts.
  • The mansion was a haven for voluptuaries, complete with a private cinema and spa.
pleasure-seeker

This term is straightforward and neutral, describing someone who actively pursues activities and experiences that bring them enjoyment and satisfaction.

  • She was a pleasure-seeker, always on the lookout for new and exciting adventures.
  • The island is a paradise for pleasure-seekers, with its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife.
sensualist

Often used in a more artistic or philosophical context, this term refers to someone who places high importance on physical sensations and experiences, particularly those that are pleasing to the senses.

  • As a sensualist, he appreciated fine dining, luxurious fabrics, and aromatic perfumes.
  • The novel portrayed him as a sensualist, exploring the world through taste, touch, and sound.
sybarite

This term has a slightly antiquated feel, describing someone who devotes themselves to pleasure and luxury, often with an implication of self-indulgence. It can carry a somewhat negative connotation.

  • The resort attracted sybarites from around the world, all eager to experience its opulence.
  • His sybaritic lifestyle eventually led to financial ruin.

Examples of usage

  • He lived like a true voluptuary, surrounded by expensive possessions and indulging in lavish feasts.
  • Her reputation as a voluptuary preceded her, with stories of extravagant parties and wild escapades.
  • The wealthy businessman was known in social circles as a notorious voluptuary, always seeking the finest things in life.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Philosophers like Epicurus spoke about the importance of enjoying lifeโ€™s pleasures, often linked with the idea of a voluptuary.
  • Several literary works during the Victorian era referenced voluptuary characters, showcasing the tension between societal norms and hedonism.

Pop Culture

  • In modern films, voluptuary characters are often depicted as rich and charming but also struggling with the consequences of their indulgent lifestyles.
  • The term can sometimes be seen in the titles of books and songs, evoking themes of romance and indulgence.

Psychology

  • Studies suggest that individuals labeled as voluptuaries may have a heightened sensitivity to pleasure, making them more attuned to sensory experiences.
  • Research indicates that the pursuit of pleasure can lead to both happiness and conflict in personal values.

Origin of 'voluptuary'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'voluptuarius', which means 'one who enjoys pleasure'.
  • Originally, the term referred to someone indulging in luxury and sensual pleasures during the Renaissance.

The word 'voluptuary' has its origins in the Latin word 'voluptarius', which means devoted to pleasure. The term has been used in English since the 17th century to describe individuals who prioritize luxury and pleasure above all else. Voluptuaries have been both admired and criticized throughout history, with some seeing them as symbols of decadence and excess, while others view them as free spirits unencumbered by societal norms.

See also: voluptuous.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,879, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.