indulgent

adjective

in·​dul·​gent in-ˈdəl-jənt How to pronounce indulgent (audio)
1
: willing to allow excessive leniency, generosity, or consideration : indulging or characterized by indulgence
indulgent grandparents
2
: done or enjoyed as a special treat or pleasure
indulgent desserts
indulgently adverb

Examples of indulgent in a Sentence

He gave the child an indulgent smile. she was perhaps a bit too indulgent with her children, who always seemed to get away with everything
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Butter gives off indulgent, comforting and inviting feelings through its modern and energizing yellow that invites makers to savor the moment. Kait Hanson, Southern Living, 6 Feb. 2025 The book contains a rundown of her now-viral morning routine, which is indulgent to say the least. Allie Merriam, Vogue, 30 Jan. 2025 Of course, guests can choose more indulgent items such as its cheesy BBQ sandwich, super parm, and cordon bleu, which are higher in calories. Gary Stern, Forbes, 22 Jan. 2025 It’s given me a focus and has been a somewhat indulgent but incredibly enjoyable way to throw myself into music. Thomas Smith, Billboard, 17 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for indulgent 

Word History

Etymology

Latin indulgent-, indulgens, present participle of indulgēre

First Known Use

1509, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of indulgent was in 1509

Dictionary Entries Near indulgent

Cite this Entry

“Indulgent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/indulgent. Accessed 20 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

indulgent

adjective
in·​dul·​gent in-ˈdəl-jənt How to pronounce indulgent (audio)
: indulging or showing indulgence : lenient
an indulgent parent
indulgently adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on indulgent

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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