epicurean

[ep-i-kyoo-ree-uhn, -kyoor-ee-]

adjective

1. fond of or adapted to luxury or indulgence in sensual pleasures; having luxurious tastes or habits, especially in eating and drinking.

2. fit for an epicure.

   epicurean delicacies.

   Synonyms: rich, deluxe, lavish, luxury, gourmet
   Antonyms: frugal, modest, plain, simple, austere

3. (initial capital letter),  of, relating to, or characteristic of Epicurus or Epicureanism.

noun

1. an epicure.

2. (initial capital letter),  a disciple of Epicurus.

epicurean

¹

/ ˌɛpɪkjʊˈriːən /

adjective

1. devoted to sensual pleasures, esp food and drink; hedonistic

2. suitable for an epicure

   an epicurean feast

noun

1. an epicure; gourmet

Epicurean

²

/ ˌɛpɪkjʊˈriːən /

adjective

1. of or relating to the philosophy of Epicurus

noun

1. a follower of the philosophy of Epicurus

Other Word Forms

• epicureanism noun
• Epicureanism noun
• nonepicurean adjective
• unepicurean adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of epicurean¹

1350–1400; Middle English Epicurien < Latin Epicūrē ( us ) of Epicurus (< Greek Epikoúreios ) + -an

Example Sentences

Its subject was Greek Epicurean philosophy, which teaches that fulfilment can be found through the pleasure of everyday things.

From BBC

But that doesn't stop him from blatantly misunderstanding the Greek philosopher Epicurus in his nonsensical complaint about "Epicurean liberalism."

From Salon

A few Latin works have been identified, but most of these contain Greek texts relating to the Epicurean school of philosophy.

From Scientific American

Mat Pond operates The Epicurean Trader in San Francisco, including four brick-and-mortar stores, an online shop and a corporate gift basket business.

From Seattle Times

Pastry chef Carolyn Ferguson, who trained at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris and owns Belle Epicurean in Seattle, will bake about a dozen different savory and sweet pies for the chain.

From Seattle Times