Meaning & Definition of word "Indulgence"
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Indulgence
/ɪnˈdʌl.dʒəns/
noun:
- 1. The action or fact of indulging; gratification of desire.
- Example: After a long week, she allowed herself an indulgence in the form of a decadent dessert.
- 2. A luxury or pleasure that one allows oneself; a special treat.
- Example: He considered his afternoon coffee break as an indulgence he looked forward to every day.
- 3. The state of being indulgent; leniency.
- Example: The teacher's indulgence toward late submissions was appreciated by the students.
- 4. In the context of Roman Catholicism, a remission of the temporal punishment due to sin.
- Example: 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.
Related Words
indulge:
To allow oneself to enjoy the pleasure of.
indulgent:
Characterized by excessive leniency or generosity.
Slang Meanings of indulgence
Meaning: Going all out
Example Sentence: He really went all out with his birthday party this year.
Meaning: Treat yourself
Example Sentence: It's been a long week, treat yourself to some dessert!