indulgence

noun
UK: /ɪnˈdʌldʒəns/
US: /ɪnˈdʌldʒəns/

  1. The act of allowing yourself or someone else to have something enjoyable, especially when it is not good for you.

    1. Chocolate cake is my only indulgence.
    2. Buying designer shoes was an unnecessary indulgence that strained our budget for the month.

  2. The state of being patient or forgiving, often towards bad behavior.

    1. Her indulgence towards her spoiled child was remarkable.
    2. The teacher showed great indulgence when the student confessed to cheating on the test.

  3. Something you allow yourself to do that you enjoy, but which is not very healthy or sensible.

    1. A long, hot bath is a well-deserved indulgence after a stressful day.
    2. I allow myself the occasional indulgence of watching reality TV, even though I know it's not highbrow.

Synonyms

luxury treat leniency forgiveness gratification satisfaction

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "indulgence" in English means: The act of allowing yourself or someone else to have something enjoyable, especially when it is not good for you., The state of being patient or forgiving, often towards bad behavior., Something you allow yourself to do that you enjoy, but which is not very healthy or sensible..

The phonetic transcription of "indulgence" is /ɪnˈdʌldʒəns/ in British English and /ɪnˈdʌldʒəns/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "indulgence": luxury, treat, leniency, forgiveness, gratification, satisfaction.

Example usage of "indulgence": "Chocolate cake is my only indulgence.". More examples on the page.