What does indulge mean?
Indulge is a verb meaning to allow or grant a pleasure, especially by enjoying something without restraint. People indulge themselves in a meal, a hobby, or a small luxury, and they indulge a craving or temptation by satisfying it. The word can also mean to permit someone else to do or have something, often implying that the permission is generous or excessive. For example, a host might indulge guests with a special dessert, while a company might be criticized for indulging in unnecessary spending. “Indulge in” is the usual construction for an activity, and “indulge oneself” emphasizes personal enjoyment. Although the word often suggests giving in to a desire, its connotation depends on context: it may be affectionate and harmless, or disapproving when behavior is excessive or irresponsible.
verbTo allow oneself or someone else to enjoy something, especially a pleasure or indulgence. It can also mean to satisfy a desire or temptation, sometimes at the expense of moderation or responsibility.
- To allow oneself to have or do something pleasurable.
- To satisfy a desire or temptation, especially by consuming or doing something appealing.
- To allow someone else to do or have something, often with the implication of excess.
- To give excessive attention or sympathy to a person or activity, especially in a way that enables poor behavior.
"After a long week, she allowed herself to indulge in a long, unhurried afternoon with a good novel."
"They decided to indulge their guests with an elaborate home-cooked meal."
"The report warned that the company had indulged in excessive spending during the previous quarter."
The word “indulge” comes from the Latin root meaning to allow or grant, so its modern sense began with permission before it grew to mean treating oneself to something special.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does indulge come from?
Indulge comes through French from the Latin verb indulgere, originally meaning to allow, grant, or extend leniency. The word entered English in the 16th century in the sense of granting permission or favoring someone. Its later meanings developed toward gratifying desires and treating someone or oneself with unusual generosity, often with the implication of excess. Related words such as indulgent and indulgence preserve the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How indulge is actually used
The phrase “indulge in” is common in both formal and informal English. “Indulge” can carry a mildly critical connotation when it describes excessive behavior, while “indulge oneself” is often neutral or positive when referring to a harmless pleasure.
Easily confused with indulge
Indulge is a verb meaning to allow or grant a pleasure, whereas indulgent is an adjective describing someone who is excessively permissive or fond of luxury.