Indulgence
/ɪnˈdʌldʒəns/
Definitions
2 meaningsThe state or act of enjoying a particular pleasure.
/ɪnˈdʌldʒəns/
The act of allowing yourself to have something enjoyable, especially more than is good for you.
The hotel offered various indulgences, including a spa and fine dining.
💡 Simply: Imagine you really, really want a cookie. Indulgence is when you decide, "Okay, just one more!" It's like giving in to a little treat or pleasure, even if you know you shouldn't. Like eating extra ice cream or buying a fun toy.
👶 For kids: It's when you get to do something you really like, even if it's a little bit too much!
More Examples
He allowed himself the indulgence of a late night after a long week.
Her occasional indulgence in shopping was a way for her to de-stress.
How It's Used
"Her only indulgence was a box of chocolates every week."
"The company's indulgence in risky investments led to its downfall."
The remission of the temporal punishment due to sin, the partial or full remission of sins.
/ɪnˈdʌldʒəns/
A special privilege or exemption.
The company granted her an indulgence to work from home.
💡 Simply: Sometimes, someone lets you get away with something you normally wouldn't. An indulgence could be extra time on a deadline.
👶 For kids: It's like getting a special pass or a free ticket!
More Examples
The church offered indulgences for those who contributed to its cause.
The judge showed some indulgence to the defendant's difficult circumstances.
How It's Used
"In some historical contexts, indulgences were sold as a remission of sins."
"The judge showed indulgence to the defendant, giving a lighter sentence."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
to give in to an indulgence
To allow oneself to have or do something enjoyable, especially something considered excessive or unhealthy.
"After a long day, she gave in to her indulgence of a hot bath and a good book."
an act of indulgence
A specific instance of enjoying something pleasurable, often implying a small excess.
"His trip to the spa was a rare act of indulgence."
From Middle English *indulgence*, from Old French *indulgence*, from Latin *indulgentia* ("a yielding to a desire"), from *indulgēns* ("yielding").
The term 'indulgence' has roots in both religious and secular contexts, initially referring to the remission of sins, and later extending to the idea of allowing oneself pleasures.
Memory tip
Imagine someone "in dull gent's" company, enjoying treats. Indulgence is the pleasure!
Word Origin
"To be lenient; to yield to"