Indulgent: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when someone is overly generous or lenient, often allowing more than what is considered healthy or appropriate.

• Her indulgent parents let her eat ice cream before dinner.
• He gave an indulgent smile and allowed the child to stay up late.

This word is appropriate when describing someone who is not strict and allows for more freedom or less severe punishment.

• The teacher was being lenient by extending the deadline for the assignment.
• Her lenient parenting style meant the kids had more independence.

Most often related to someone who allows too much freedom or too many privileges, potentially leading to lack of discipline.

• Permissive parenting can sometimes lead to children having difficulty following rules.
• His permissive attitude towards employees led to a relaxed but unproductive office environment.

Commonly used for giving someone a lot of attention or care, often in a way that makes them feel very comfortable and spoiled.

• She spent the afternoon pampering herself at the spa.
• The hotel is known for pampering its guests with luxurious amenities.

Usually has a negative connotation, implying someone is being overly generous to the detriment of the person's character or behavior.

• They are spoiling their child by giving him everything he asks for.
• You are spoiling the dog by letting it eat from the table.

This word is often used when someone or something is overly generous or lenient, especially in a way that allows oneself or others to have or do something considered a luxury. It can sometimes have a slightly negative connotation if it suggests excess.

• She had an indulgent habit of eating chocolate every night.
• His parents were indulgent, letting him stay up past his bedtime.

This term is used for something that is extremely comfortable, elegant, or enjoyable, typically expensive and not necessary. It usually has a positive connotation.

• They stayed in a luxurious suite with a stunning ocean view.
• The car's interior was designed to be as luxurious as possible.

This term often carries a negative connotation, referring to something that is extravagantly self-indulgent to the point of decline or decay. It implies a sense of moral or cultural decay due to excessive indulgence.

• The dessert was so rich and chocolatey, it felt decadent.
• The party was seen as a display of decadent excess and waste.

This word describes something that is very expensive, rich, and grand, often in a way that appeals to the senses. It usually has a positive connotation and denotes great quality.

• The banquet was a sumptuous feast with every imaginable delicacy.
• She wore a sumptuous gown that turned heads at the gala.

Use this word to describe something that is rich, elaborate, or luxurious in a way that shows no expense has been spared. It's often used positively, but it can imply excessive spending.

• The hotel provided a lavish spread for breakfast.
• They threw a lavish wedding celebration.