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Gourmand vs Epicurean - What's the difference?

gourmand | epicurean |

As nouns the difference between gourmand and epicurean

is that gourmand is a person given to excess in the consumption of food and drink; a greedy or ravenous eater while epicurean is one who is devoted to pleasure.

As an adjective epicurean is

pursuing pleasure, especially in reference to food or comfort.

gourmand

English

Alternative forms

* gormand

Noun

(en noun)
  • A person given to excess in the consumption of food and drink; a greedy or ravenous eater.
  • *(Ben Jonson) (1572-1637)
  • *:That great gourmand , fat Apicius
  • *
  • *:The colonel and his sponsor made a queer contrast: Greystone [the sponsor] long and stringy, with a face that seemed as if a cold wind was eternally playing on it. […] But there was not a more lascivious reprobate and gourmand in all London than this same Greystone.
  • A person who appreciates good food.

    • Synonyms

    * (person given to excess consumption) glutton, trencherman, see also * (person who appreciates food) chowhound, gastronaut, gourmet * (person with a special interest or knowledge of food) foodie

    Derived terms

    * gourmandism

    Related terms

    * gourmet

    epicurean

    English

    Adjective

    (en adjective)
  • pursuing pleasure, especially in reference to food or comfort
  • * 1847 , George Frederick Augustus Ruxton, Adventures in Mexico and the Rocky Mountains (page 267)
    • The powers of the Canadian voyageurs and hunters in the consumption of meat strike the greenhorn with wonder and astonishment; and are only equalled by the gastronomical capabilities exhibited by Indian dogs, both following the same plan in their epicurean gorgings.
  • devoted to luxurious living

    • Synonyms

    * * *

    Noun

    (en noun)
  • one who is devoted to pleasure

    • Synonyms

    * * * See also

    Usage notes

    Modern accepted use of the terms epicurean and Epicureanism refers often to the appreciation of, and indulgement in, good food (gourmet), luxury, hedonism, and sensual pleasure. This strays significantly from the original philosophic intent of Epicureanism. The philosophy indeed elevated pleasure and happiness as the most worthy pursuit, but specifically warned against fine food and frequent sex, for it could lead to dissatisfaction later. Instead, the goal was a long-term pleasure, marked by serenity and temperance, achieved through moderation rather than indulging. Modern senses of gourmet, luxury, hedonism, sensual pleasure and lust are mostly in contrast with the original ancient teachings.