Meaning & Definition
noun
The action or fact of indulging; gratification of desire.
After a long week, she allowed herself an indulgence in the form of a decadent dessert.
A luxury or pleasure that one allows oneself; a special treat.
He considered his afternoon coffee break as an indulgence he looked forward to every day.
The state of being indulgent; leniency.
The teacher's indulgence toward late submissions was appreciated by the students.
In the context of Roman Catholicism, a remission of the temporal punishment due to sin.
During the Lent season, the church offered indulgences for those who performed acts of charity.
Etymology
Middle English, from Old French 'indulgens', from Latin 'indulgentia'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
guilty indulgence:
A pleasure that one enjoys despite feeling it may be wrong or excessive.
self-indulgence:
The act of allowing oneself to enjoy one's desires or pleasures without restraint.
Slang Meanings
Going all out
He really went all out with his birthday party this year.
Treat yourself
It's been a long week, treat yourself to some dessert!