epicure
UK: ˈɛpɪkjʊə | US: ˈɛpɪkjʊr
n. a person who enjoys fine food and drink; a connoisseur of gourmet pleasures
n. (historically) a follower of Epicureanism, a philosophy advocating refined pleasure as life's highest good
The word traces back to Epicurus (341–270 BCE), whose philosophy emphasized serene, refined pleasures over excess. While modern "epicure" narrows the focus to culinary delights, the original term encompassed a broader ethos of mindful enjoyment. Over time, the association with food dominance arose from critics misrepresenting Epicureanism as mere hedonism—a linguistic evolution reflecting cultural reinterpretation.
The restaurant caters to epicures who appreciate truffles and rare wines.
As an epicure, she traveled the world to sample authentic regional cuisines.
Critics dismissed him as an epicure, ignoring his intellectual pursuits.
The banquet was designed to delight even the most discerning epicure.
Epicurean philosophy, despite stereotypes, actually advocates moderation.