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Definition of indulge

indulge

/ɪnˈdʌldʒ/
in · dulge
Adverb:indulgently
•
Adjective:indulgent
•
Past Simple:indulged
•
Past Participle:indulged
•
Present Participle:indulging
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indulge Lexical Profile

indulge Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To allow oneself to enjoy the pleasure of something, often to excess (usually followed by "in").

Example

"After completing the marathon, she decided to indulge in a rich chocolate cake."

2

To satisfy or yield freely to a desire, whim, or interest.

Example

"Retirement finally gave him the free time to indulge his passion for landscape painting."

3

To treat someone with excessive kindness, leniency, or generosity.

Example

"The grandparents loved to indulge the children with toys and late bedtimes whenever they visited."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for indulge
Antonyms
View all antonyms for indulge

• Rhymes for indulge

• Nearby Words

inductive
inductively
inductor
indulge
indulgence
indulgent
indulgently

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the early 17th century from Latin indulgēre, meaning "to be kind or tender toward, yield to, or concede," of uncertain ultimate origin.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Indulge. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/indulge
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