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 The film does deviate from what would be the common reality in the Indian middle-class and does so only to put forth its message of quitting the rat-race and living for the present without being too indulgent in materialistic luxuries. Sweta Kaushal, Forbes, 29 Feb. 2024 Just beat the four ingredients together in a bowl with your electric mixer and your cake frosting recipe is ready to use. 10 of 16 Caramel Frosting View Recipe For a dessert that's extra sweet or indulgent, add this caramel frosting recipe. Sheena Chihak, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Feb. 2024 Its indulgent recipes like marshmallow twist, chocolate croissant, and strawberry ice will make you into nostalgic Proust in no time. Vulture, 2 Feb. 2024 Referred to by locals as Kyoto’s Kitchen, this approximately 400-year-old thriving area is ripe for indulgent snacking. Laura Manske, Forbes, 1 Mar. 2024 Buttercream frosting is a delicious way to add indulgent flavor to your favorite cakes and cupcakes. Southern Living Editors, Southern Living, 22 Feb. 2024 Fairmont’s worldclass brand standards are taken to new heights, and rooms include Posturepedic mattresses, walk-in maxi bars (stocked with healthy, indulgent, and local Qatari treats), bean-to-cup coffee machines, and a walk-in dressing area. Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 12 Feb. 2024 On top of that, indulgent doesn’t automatically equal frivolous. Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 11 Feb. 2024 In the meantime, enjoy indulgent perks like afternoon tea with a mountain view and fondue at Walliser Stube; and pillowy, buttery croissants at the to-go café. Kristine Hansen, Vogue, 8 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'indulgent.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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 19 Mar. 2024.

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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