indulgent

adjective

in·​dul·​gent in-ˈdəl-jənt How to pronounce indulgent (audio)
Synonyms of indulgentnext
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.
Of course, no Kathy Hilton party is complete without an unforgettable dinner menu — and this year’s lineup was a collaboration that felt both indulgent and entirely on brand. Moná Thomas, PEOPLE, 23 Dec. 2025 To build indulgent Southern charm into this dish, the meat is seasoned with Worcestershire and tomato, all topped with creamy mashed potatoes. Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 22 Dec. 2025 This indulgent bake, which is packed with vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar, is the perfect addition to a cozy winter brunch menu. Holly Riordan, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Dec. 2025 The end of the year brings a lot of fun—and, with it, a lot of rich, indulgent foods. Mélanie Nauche, Vogue, 20 Dec. 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

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Cite this Entry

“Indulgent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/indulgent. Accessed 30 Dec. 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

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