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

• 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 city offers the perfect backdrop for a guilt-free yet indulgent luxury weekend with some of the top restaurants in the world as well as stunning luxury hotels with a conscience. —Michele Robson, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2025

And through it all, there’s the unexpected luxury of it: a sensorial moment that makes routine hair-washing feel indulgent. —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 30 July 2025

While ordering a large format cocktail may feel more indulgent, this isn’t always the case. —Jillian Dara, Forbes.com, 24 July 2025

The right butter can add richness to baked goods, depth to sautéed dishes, and be downright indulgent on a thick slice of toast. —Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 July 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