What does gormandize mean?
The verb gormandize means to eat excessively and voraciously, often with great enthusiasm and pleasure. It can also imply indulging in sensual pleasures, particularly those related to eating. While not commonly used in modern American English, gormandize has a rich history and can add variety and interest to writing and conversation. The word is often used to describe situations where people eat large quantities of food, such as at buffets or feasts. Gormandize can also be used to convey a sense of indulgence or excess, making it a useful word for writers and speakers looking to add nuance to their descriptions.
verbTo eat greedily and voraciously; to indulge in excessive eating.
- To eat excessively and voraciously.
- To indulge in sensual pleasures, especially eating.
"The guests gormandized on the lavish buffet, sampling every dish."
"The family gormandized on Thanksgiving, enjoying a large feast."
"The food critic gormandized at the new restaurant, sampling every dish on the menu."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of gormandize
The word gormandize originates from the Old French term 'gormand', meaning glutton or greedy eater. It entered Middle English as 'gormandize', initially meaning to eat excessively. Over time, the word developed connotations of indulgence and sensual pleasure. Cognates include the noun gourmand, referring to a person who enjoys fine food and drink.
How gormandize is actually used
This word has a somewhat formal or old-fashioned tone; it is less commonly used in modern American English.