indulgent

adjective

in·​dul·​gent in-ˈdəl-jənt 

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

Synonyms of indulgent

• easy
• soft
• charitable

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

Caramel swirl, mint chip, or cookie dough all make indulgent fillings that work well with the chocolate ganache and Oreo cookie crust. — Erin Merhar, Southern Living, 30 June 2026

Narcissism isn't just about being indulgent or centered on yourself. — Gregory Stebbins, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026

The decadent new dessert features multiple layers of indulgent chocolate, brownie and toffee. — Moná Thomas, PEOPLE, 25 June 2026

Olive Oil Bundt Cake An olive oil Bundt cake is a crowd-pleasing dessert for birthdays, summer gatherings, or just as an indulgent end to a meal. — Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 24 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin indulgent-, indulgens, present participle of indulgēre

First Known Use

1509, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

indulgent

adjective

in·​dul·​gent in-ˈdəl-jənt 

: indulging or showing indulgence : lenient

an indulgent parent

indulgently adverb