Pampering: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is giving extra care and attention to another person, often in a luxurious or relaxing way. It's typically positive and implies a treat rather than a necessity.

• She decided to spend the weekend pampering herself at the spa
• He loves pampering his dog with special treats and grooming sessions

Used when someone is giving too much to another person, often leading to negative outcomes. Commonly used regarding children or pets when they are given everything they want without any limits, causing them to behave badly.

• She worries that grandparents are spoiling her kids with too many gifts
• He tends to spoil his dog, which now refuses to eat regular dog food

This word is used when someone is allowing themselves or others to have or do something that they enjoy, especially more than is good for them. It can be neutral or slightly negative if it implies overdoing something.

• He indulged his sweet tooth with a massive slice of chocolate cake
• They indulge their children with toys and gadgets, rarely saying no

This word is used when someone is taking care of another person or thing with excessive affection, sometimes to the point of overprotection. Often used in a somewhat old-fashioned or formal context.

• She cossets her plants as if they were her children
• The wealthy man cosseted his exotic car collection, never letting anyone else drive them

Pampering is used when someone is providing extra care or attention to someone else, often to make them feel more comfortable or special. It can be more personal and emotional.

• After a stressful week, she enjoyed a day of pampering at the spa.
• Grandma always pampers her grandchildren with sweets and stories.

Indulgence is often used when someone is allowing themselves to enjoy something special or not necessarily good for them. It can sometimes have a negative connotation when it implies giving in to desires.

• Chocolate cake is her favorite indulgence.
• He allowed himself the small indulgence of sleeping in on Sundays.

Luxury is used to describe something that is very high quality, expensive, or providing great comfort and pleasure. It's often associated with wealth and sophistication.

• They stayed in a luxury hotel during their vacation.
• Owning a yacht is considered a luxury.

Treatment is used when referring to a form of therapy or care, often medical or beauty-related. It is usually more clinical and less personal compared to pampering.

• She went to the clinic for a new skincare treatment.
• The treatment for his condition includes both medication and physical therapy.