Hedonist
/ˈhɛd.ən.ɪst/noun
A person who seeks pleasure as the highest good.
Did you know?The concept of hedonism dates back to ancient Greece, where it was both celebrated and feared as a path to enlightenment and excess.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἡδονή (hēdonē)
“Pleasure, delight, or enjoyment.”
14th Century
Old French
hedoniste
“One who indulges in pleasure; derived from Greek roots.”
17th Century
Latin
hedonismus
“An ethical doctrine advocating pleasure as the highest good.”
Modern English
English
hedonist
“A person who pursues pleasure as a primary goal.”
Explore more surprising origins