What does sybaritic mean?
The term sybaritic describes a lifestyle or attitude that prioritizes luxury, sensuality, and pleasure, often to an excessive degree. Originating from the ancient Greek city of Sybaris, known for its wealthy and decadent inhabitants, the word sybaritic has come to evoke images of lavish parties, fine dining, and exotic getaways. While it can be used to describe a person's tastes or habits, it often carries a hint of criticism or disapproval, implying that the individual in question has overindulged in the finer things in life. As a result, the term sybaritic is often used in a somewhat pejorative way, suggesting that someone has prioritized pleasure over more practical or responsible considerations. Nevertheless, the word remains a useful and evocative way to describe a particular approach to life, one that values indulgence and sensual experience above all else.
adjectiveSybaritic refers to a luxurious and sensual approach to life, often characterized by excessive indulgence in pleasure, especially good food and drink.
- relating to or characteristic of Sybaris or its inhabitants, known for their love of luxury and sensual pleasures
- excessively fond of luxury and sensual pleasures
"The sybaritic lifestyle of the wealthy elite was marked by lavish parties and exotic vacations."
"The sybaritic tendencies of the city's elite were evident in their extravagant spending habits."
"Her sybaritic tastes were reflected in her love of fine dining and expensive jewelry."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of sybaritic
The word sybaritic originates from the ancient Greek city of Sybaris, which was known for its wealthy and decadent inhabitants. The Sybarites were said to be notorious for their love of luxury and sensual pleasures, and their city was often cited as an example of excess and overindulgence. The term sybaritic has been used in English since the 17th century to describe someone or something that is excessively fond of luxury and sensual pleasures.
How sybaritic is actually used
The term sybaritic often carries a connotation of excess and overindulgence, and can be used to describe both people and their lifestyles. It is often used in a somewhat critical or disapproving way.