Epicurean
/ˌɛpɪkjʊˈriːən/noun
Relating to Epicurus or his philosophy, especially the pursuit of moderate pleasure and freedom from pain.
Did you know?The word comes from Epicurus, whose school taught that the highest pleasure was actually calmness, simplicity, and freedom from fear — not wild hedonism.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
Ἐπίκουρος (Epíkouros)
“Epicurus, the Athenian philosopher whose name was used for his school”
Late 4th Century BCE
Greek
Ἐπικούρειος (Epikoureios)
“of or belonging to Epicurus or his doctrines”
Late Latin
Latin
Epicureus
“Epicurean; follower of Epicurus”
14th Century
English
epicure
“a follower of Epicurus; later, a lover of good food and drink”
16th Century
English
Epicurean
“relating to Epicurus or his philosophy; later, devoted to sensual pleasure”
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