Overindulge: meaning, definitions and examples
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overindulge
[ˌoʊ.vər.ɪnˈdʌldʒ ]
Definition
in eating or drinking
To indulge to an excessive degree in eating or drinking, often to the point of discomfort or illness. It involves consuming more than necessary or healthy, usually out of a lack of self-control or in response to strong cravings.
Synonyms
binge, gorge, overeat, stuff oneself.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| overindulge |
Use when someone consumes too much of something, such as food, drink, or even luxury, often temporarily giving in to their desires.
|
| binge |
Use when someone is excessively indulging in something, especially in a short period of time, like eating, drinking, or watching TV. It has a more compulsive connotation compared to 'overindulge'.
|
| gorge |
Use when referring to someone eating a large amount of food greedily or voraciously. This word is often used with a slightly negative or intense connotation.
|
| overeat |
Use in situations where someone eats more food than their body needs, typically leading to discomfort or health issues. It is a more neutral term compared to the others.
|
| stuff oneself |
Use when someone eats until they are very full, often to the point of discomfort. It has a casual and often negative connotation.
|
Examples of usage
- He tends to overindulge in sweets during the holidays.
- She regretted overindulging in alcohol at the party.
- If you overindulge regularly, it can lead to health problems.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the prefix 'over-', meaning too much, combined with 'indulge', which means to give in to desire.
- It entered the English language in the late 19th century, reflecting growing concerns about excess in lifestyle.
- Related words, such as 'indulgence', often have a connection to pleasure-seeking behaviors throughout history.
Psychology
- Psychological studies suggest that overindulging can lead to feelings of guilt and can impact mental health.
- Research shows that people who overindulge in food or entertainment often use these behaviors to cope with stress or anxiety.
- Overindulgence can create a cycle of craving and satisfaction, which can be hard to break.
Cultural Perspectives
- In many cultures, moderation is valued, and overindulging is often viewed negatively, particularly with food and consumerism.
- Certain holidays or celebrations, like Thanksgiving, may encourage overindulgence in food as part of cultural tradition.
- Some cultures emphasize the joy of simple pleasures, warning against the pitfalls of excess.
Nutrition
- Overindulging in unhealthy foods can lead to weight gain and long-term health issues, according to dietary guidelines.
- Experts recommend balanced eating habits to prevent the physical and emotional downsides of overindulgence.
- Mindful eating practices are advocated as a way to enjoy food without overindulging.
Literature
- Literary works often explore themes of overindulgence, such as in F. Scott Fitzgerald's 'The Great Gatsby', where excess is a key theme.
- Classic texts may critique characters who overindulge, symbolizing moral decay or societal collapse.
- Poets and authors have sometimes romanticized the idea of overindulging in love or art, contrasting it with themes of moderation.
Translations
Translations of the word "overindulge" in other languages:
🇵🇹 exceder-se
- exagerar
- abusar
🇮🇳 अत्यधिक सेवन करना
🇩🇪 übermäßig genießen
🇮🇩 berlebihan
🇺🇦 зловживати
🇵🇱 nadmiernie się oddawać
🇯🇵 過度に楽しむ
🇫🇷 se livrer excessivement
🇪🇸 excederse
🇹🇷 aşırıya kaçmak
🇰🇷 과도하게 즐기다
🇸🇦 الإفراط
🇨🇿 přehánět
🇸🇰 preháňať
🇨🇳 过度放纵
🇸🇮 pretirano se prepustiti
🇮🇸 ofreyna
🇰🇿 шамадан тыс ләззат алу
🇬🇪 გაჭარბება
🇦🇿 həddindən artıq zövq almaq
🇲🇽 excederse