Definition

Proper noun A Roman general and statesman, Lucius Licinius Lucullus, renowned for his military campaigns, particularly in the Third Mithridatic War, and for his subsequent retirement to a life of extreme wealth and luxury, especially noted for hosting elaborate and extravagant feasts.

Examples of Usage

• Lucullus is often cited in historical texts as the epitome of opulence and culinary excess.
• The biography details the military strategies of Lucullus before his famous retirement.
• Writers contrasted the disciplined life of Cato with the luxurious life of Lucullus.

Advanced Usage

• "Lucullan feast" or "Lucullean feast": An idiom meaning an incredibly lavish and sumptuous banquet.
  • The wedding reception was a veritable Lucullan feast, with delicacies from around the world.

Variants and Related Words

• Lucullan (adjective): Pertaining to Lucullus or, more commonly, meaning characterized by lavishness and luxury, especially in food.
  • They enjoyed a Lucullan spread of gourmet dishes.

Synonyms

• Epicure
• Sybarite
• Hedonist (when referring to his pursuit of pleasure in retirement)

Related Idioms

• "To dine like Lucullus": To eat an extraordinarily luxurious and expensive meal.
  • After his promotion, he joked that he could finally afford to dine like Lucullus.

Noun

1. Roman general famous for giving lavish banquets (110-57 BC)