Gourmet

Podcast 1 · Introduction

Gourmet

A documentary-style narration: origin, meaning, and feel.

Part of speech

noun and adjective

Pronunciation

GOOR-may  /ˈɡʊəmeɪ/

Definition

As a noun: a person with a refined palate and expert knowledge of fine food and drink. As an adjective: of a high quality, involving fine food prepared or presented in an elaborate and expert way.

Plain meaning

A gourmet is someone with a sophisticated knowledge of excellent food and wine. As an adjective, gourmet describes food that is high-quality, refined, and expertly prepared.

Register

Elevated in its noun use; slightly aspirational in its adjective use. The noun gourmet is respectful and precise. The adjective gourmet has been somewhat diluted by commercial use — gourmet coffee, gourmet crisps — but retains positive connotations of quality.