What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hedonist
Example
She was a hedonist who believed that life was meant to be enjoyed. [hedonist: noun]
Example
He lived a hedonistic lifestyle, always seeking out new experiences and pleasures. [hedonistic: adjective]
epicurean
Example
He was an epicurean who loved to try new restaurants and cuisines. [epicurean: noun]
Example
She had an epicurean palate and could distinguish between different types of wine. [epicurean: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hedonist is more commonly used than epicurean in everyday language. Hedonist is a more general term that can be applied to anyone who seeks pleasure, while epicurean is more specific and often used to describe someone with a refined taste in food, drink, and culture.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hedonist and epicurean?
Both hedonist and epicurean are relatively formal words, but epicurean is often associated with a more sophisticated and cultured tone.