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

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

Harry & David Deluxe Fresh Fruit Basket – Sometimes fruit makes the best gift, and Harry & David is known for their gourmet fruit gifts.

From Salon • Dec. 4, 2025

One stall sold slices of mangoes brought in from Jazan, the fertile southern province famous for its tropical fruits, wheat and coffee; others sold raisins, spices, nuts and gourmet honey from Yemen.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 28, 2025

“Ain’t that sweet,” Mrs. Reilly said of the gourmet grandchildren.

From "A Confederacy of Dunces" by John Kennedy Toole