Indulge

Definition

To allow oneself or another to enjoy a desire, pleasure, or whim to an excess.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈdʌldʒ/
• Respelling: in-DULJ (with "in" as in "tin" and "DULJ" as in "bulge")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈdʌldʒ/
• Respelling: in-DULJ (with "in" as in "tin" and "DULJ" as in "bulge")

In both dialects, "indulge" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "DULJ." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "in-DULJ."

Etymology

From Latin "indulgere", meaning "to be kind or tender", but the exact origin and the connection of sense is obscure.

Derivatives

• Indulgence (noun)
• Indulgent (adjective)
• Indulging (verb, present participle)
• Indulged (verb, past tense)
• Self-indulgence (noun)

Synonyms

• Pamper
• Cater
• Spoil

Antonyms

• Deprive
• Restrain
• Withhold

Usage

"Indulge" is often used in contexts related to allowing oneself or others to partake in pleasures or desires, such as food, luxury, or leisure activities. It can also imply yielding to one's inclinations or wishes, often to an excessive degree.

Related Terms

• Gratify
• Satisfy
• Yield
• Relent
• Luxuriate

Detailed Definition

Verb

• Indulge (Verb, Enjoyment): To allow oneself or another to enjoy a particular pleasure or satisfaction.
  • Example: "She decided to indulge in a piece of chocolate cake after dinner."

• Indulge (Verb, Yield): To yield to an inclination or desire; to allow oneself to follow one's will.
  • Example: "He indulged his passion for travel by visiting several countries each year."

Note: "Indulge" primarily conveys a sense of allowing oneself or someone else to enjoy something, often without restraint. It can have both positive and negative connotations depending on the context. It suggests a certain level of self-treat or even excess.