hedonist
What does "hedonist" mean?
A hedonist is a person who believes that the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain are the most important goals in life. The mental image is someone who prioritizes sensory enjoyment, luxury, and immediate gratification above duty, long-term sacrifice, or moral austerity. While the term can be used neutrally to describe a philosophical stance, it often carries a slightly judgmental or indulgent connotation in casual conversation. It is frequently used to describe someone who loves fine dining, travel, or leisure, and is often paired with terms like "unapologetic" or "self-indulgent."
"hedonist" in conversation
Planning a vacation
Are we really going to spend our entire budget on that five-star resort?
Are we really going to spend our entire budget on that five-star resort?
Hey, I’m a total hedonist when it comes to holidays. Life is short!
Hey, I’m a total hedonist when it comes to holidays. Life is short!
Used here to justify spending money on comfort and luxury.
Discussing a friend's lifestyle
Have you seen Leo's new apartment? It's basically a spa.
Have you seen Leo's new apartment? It's basically a spa.
He’s a classic hedonist; he won't settle for anything less than pure comfort.
He’s a classic hedonist; he won't settle for anything less than pure comfort.
Used to describe a personality trait centered on physical comfort.
"hedonist" in a sentence
He is a simple hedonist who enjoys good wine and soft pillows.
He is a simple hedonist who enjoys good wine and soft pillows.
The festival attracted every hedonist in the city, all looking for the next thrill.
The festival attracted every hedonist in the city, all looking for the next thrill.
Ancient Greek philosophy debated whether the life of a hedonist could truly lead to lasting happiness.
Ancient Greek philosophy debated whether the life of a hedonist could truly lead to lasting happiness.
