indulgent

adjective

in·dul·gent in-ˈdəl-jənt

Synonyms of indulgent

: willing to allow excessive leniency, generosity, or consideration : indulging or characterized by indulgence

indulgent grandparents

: 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.

Lucretia was obviously given her name on purpose, but to get into the obvious de Medici theme would feel over-indulgent to this writer, my Lovely Readers. — Rachel Elspeth Gross, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026 Fans love the Cream Cold Brew for its bold flavor and indulgent milkshake-like consistency. — Kait Hanson, Southern Living, 4 Aug. 2026 While the frozen beverage looks indulgent, experts say the drink itself isn't necessarily any less healthy than your usual cup of joe. — Peter Burke, FOXNews.com, 29 July 2026 For a more elevated but still indulgent experience, attend one of the theme nights at Anchor & Den, in Grand Cayman Marriott Resort. — Taylor McIntyre, Travel + Leisure, 28 July 2026 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

See more words from the same year

Browse Nearby Words

indulgence

indulgent

indulgently

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Indulgent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/indulgent. Accessed 11 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

indulgent

adjective

in·dul·gent in-ˈdəl-jənt

: indulging or showing indulgence : lenient

an indulgent parent

indulgently adverb

indulgent

adjective

Synonyms of indulgent

Examples of indulgent in a Sentence

Word History

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Kids Definition

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