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

The Southern Living Test Kitchen recommends pairing this delicious pancake-y casserole with good butter, fresh berries like blueberries or strawberries, and powdered sugar for an indulgent breakfast. —Josh Miller, Southern Living, 31 Dec. 2025

In South Africa, some estates offer outdoor fun by day, indulgent wine and food tastings by night. —Bloomberg, Mercury News, 31 Dec. 2025

Wellness Retreats at Home An indulgent escape without having to leave home? —Jackson Design and Remodeling, San Diego Union-Tribune, 31 Dec. 2025

In the kitchen, an original 1950s refrigerator and skillet stand ready, perfect for rustling up Presley’s famously indulgent peanut butter, banana, and jelly sandwiches. —Zoey Goto, Travel + Leisure, 29 Dec. 2025

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