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

This version of the classic Corn Pudding Casserole is made with fontina or Swiss cheese for an ultra-creamy, extra indulgent dish. —Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 23 May 2026

Standouts on the hot menu include the collard green ramen, the longest-running item on the menu, and the indulgent New York strip with classic steakhouse sides. —Kate Williams, AJC.com, 22 May 2026

While historic curbside appeal remains intact, inside The Biltmore opens to an even more glamorous world, with shimmering chandeliers and a bright-white marble lobby setting the tone for an indulgent stay. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 May 2026

But there were instances in which the frontman’s flourishes may have come off as a bit too indulgent. —Théoden Janes, Charlotte Observer, 19 May 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