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.
That salted caramel and pistachio combo adds this nutty sweetness that makes Chalet feel even more indulgent. Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 3 Oct. 2025 Everything about it has to be rich, over the top, and a lot more indulgent than its traditional counterpart. Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 3 Oct. 2025 From universally flattering makeup picks and designer fragrances to skincare staples, multi-use hair tools and indulgent self-care treats, these crowd-pleasing gifts are a great choice for any beauty lover. Caitlyn Martyn May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 2 Oct. 2025 But no Berries because that's just too indulgent. Breanne L. Heldman, PEOPLE, 2 Oct. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Indulgent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/indulgent. Accessed 9 Oct. 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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