Main Entry: ep·i·cure

Pronunciation: \ˈe-pi-ˌkyu̇r\

Function: noun

Etymology: Epicurus

Date: 1565

1 archaic : one devoted to sensual pleasure : sybarite
2 : one with sensitive and discriminating tastes especially in food or wine

synonyms epicure, gourmet, gourmand, gastronome mean one who takes pleasure in eating and drinking. epicure implies fastidiousness and voluptuousness of taste. gourmet implies being a connoisseur in food and drink and the discriminating enjoyment of them. gourmand implies a hearty appetite for good food and drink, not without discernment, but with less than a gourmet's. gastronome implies that one has studied extensively the history and rituals of haute cuisine.