indulgently

Indulgently is an adverb meaning “in an indulgent manner,” with indulgent implying a willingness to allow someone more pleasure, comfort, or freedom than may be considered appropriate. It commonly describes a permissive attitude, such as indulgent treatment, an indulgent smile, or indulgent parents. The word is often mildly critical: it can suggest that someone is being excessively accommodating or that a person is yielding to a whim or appetite. Although it is used in both British and American English, it sounds more literary or formal than everyday alternatives such as leniently, permissively, or overly generously. Indulgently is especially useful when the focus is on the manner of indulgence rather than on the person or quality being described. It can apply to relationships, education, hospitality, self-indulgence, and the handling of rules or expectations.

In a way that indulges someone, especially by being lenient, permissive, or excessively accommodating.

Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.

Where does indulgently come from?

Indulgently comes from the adjective indulgent, which in turn derives from the verb indulge. The family traces through Old French and Latin to Latin indulgere, a word associated with being lenient or allowing something. The modern sense developed from the idea of granting a person’s wishes or desires, including the more critical sense of permitting excessive gratification.

Related word forms

How indulgently is actually used

The word is relatively formal and usually carries a slightly critical tone, implying excessive lenience or gratification.

Easily confused with indulgently

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