gourmet

American  

[goor-mey, goor-mey] / gʊərˈmeɪ, ˈgʊər meɪ /

noun

1. a connoisseur of fine food and drink; epicure.

   Synonyms:

   bon vivant, gastronome

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adjective

1. of or characteristic of a gourmet, especially in involving or purporting to involve high-quality or exotic ingredients and skilled preparation.

   gourmet meals; gourmet cooking.

2. elaborately equipped for the preparation of fancy, specialized, or exotic meals.

   a gourmet kitchen.

gourmet British  

/ ɡurmɛ, ˈɡʊəmeɪ /

noun

1. a person who cultivates a discriminating palate for the enjoyment of good food and drink

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Etymology

Origin of gourmet

1810–20; < French; Old French gromet, grommes valet (especially of a wine merchant)

Example Sentences

Once there, they swarm the island’s beach clubs, gourmet restaurants and luxury hotels, often paying astronomical prices for the privilege to do so.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 31, 2026

Something snacky + local: fruit, gourmet crackers, local crisps, or a small bag from a neighborhood bakery or market.

From Salon • Jan. 27, 2026

The 5,000-square-foot home, which was built in 2000, features several impressive upgrades, including “newly added wooden beams and fireplace” in the living room, as well as top-of-the-line appliances in the enormous gourmet kitchen.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 20, 2026

The cinema chain runs 49 venues across the UK and is known for its luxury seating and gourmet menus.

From BBC • Dec. 29, 2025

When I had visitors, which was increasingly often, he would prepare gourmet meals.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela