epicurean
UK[ˌepɪkjʊəˈriːən]US[ˌepɪkjʊˈriːən]
adj
devoted to the pursuit of sensual pleasure, especially that derived from fine food and drink.
n
a person devoted to sensual enjoyment, especially that derived from fine food and drink.
Morpheme Breakdown
epicure
an
epicure
an
Etymology
the word derives from the name of the ancient greek philosopher epicurus, founder of the school of thought known as epicureanism. while epicurus taught that pleasure was the highest good, he advocated for a life of modest, intellectual pleasures aimed at attaining tranquility and freedom from fear. however, later popular interpretation, particularly in english usage from the 16th century onward, simplified and narrowed this philosophy to mean the pursuit of refined, especially culinary, luxury. thus, 'epicurean' evolved from a specific philosophical label to a general term for someone devoted to the sophisticated enjoyment of sensual delights.
Analysis
Structure: epicure + an
epicure (from latin epicurus, from greek epikouros, the name of the philosopher epicurus) + an (english suffix forming adjectives and nouns meaning 'belonging to' or 'relating to').
Examples
he leads an epicurean lifestyle, seeking out the finest wines and gourmet meals.
the restaurant's tasting menu was a delight for any epicurean.
her epicurean tastes made her the perfect critic for the culinary festival.