# gluttony

/ˈɡɫətəni/ (US) · /ɡlˈʌtəni/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/gluttony
Updated: 2026-10-13

## Definition

the habit of eating or drinking much more than you need. It is often used to describe one of the 'seven deadly sins' in historical or religious contexts.

For teachers: habitual greed or excess in eating. Frequently referenced as one of the seven deadly sins in Christian theology, though it is also applied to general overindulgence in modern contexts.

## Examples

- He was accused of gluttony after eating three whole pizzas.
- The holiday feast was a display of pure gluttony, with tables overflowing with more food than the guests could ever finish.
- While modern society often frames overeating as a health concern, historical literature frequently treated gluttony as a moral failing that reflected a lack of self-discipline and spiritual focus.

## Usage notes

- Often used in religious or literary contexts; can be applied metaphorically to any excessive consumption.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.