bon vivant
Say it: bon vee-VON /ˌbɒ̃ viːˈvɒ̃/ · noun phrase
What “bon vivant” means
Someone who loves good food, drink and lively company.
More precisely: A person who enjoys good food, drink and a sociable life.
Example: “My uncle, a true bon vivant, knows the best wine bar in every city.”
When to use it
For someone who enjoys dining and social pleasures, usually affectionately, with a slightly old-fashioned or sophisticated tone.
Memory trick
French for someone who lives well: picture good meals shared with good company.
Similar words
epicure, gourmet, hedonist
Where it comes from
French, 'person who lives well'.
Quick check
Your friend delights in long dinners, fine wine and lively conversation with guests. You might call them…
a gourmet or a bon vivant?
Show the answer
a bon vivant
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