indulge

verb

in-DULJ/ɪnˈdʌld͡ʒ/

Formsindulges, indulging, indulged

5 meanings of indulge

1
verbintransitive
To let yourself enjoy something you want, even when part of you holds back.
Like saying yes to a treat when part of you wants to say no.
After a hard week, I like to indulge a bit.
She decided to indulge and order dessert.
Similarsplurge
Oppositeabstain, refrain
Note
2
verbtransitive
To let someone have or do what they want.
Like letting a friend pick the movie just to make them happy.
Grandparents love to indulge their grandchildren.
She indulges her cat with treats every evening.
Similarpamper, spoil, humor, gratify, satisfy
Oppositedeny, refuse
Note
3
verbtransitive
To let a habit or feeling continue instead of fighting it.
Like leaving a door open instead of shutting it firmly.
He tends to indulge his bad habits when he is stressed.
Try not to indulge every angry thought that comes along.
Similarsatisfy, gratify, feed, pursue
Oppositeresist, suppress, restrain, curb
Note
4
verbtransitive
To grant something to someone as a favor or kindness.
Like doing someone a small favor just because they asked nicely.
The teacher indulged him with extra time on the test.
Please indulge me with a few more minutes.
Similartreat, humor, oblige, favor
Note
5
verbtransitive
To give someone more time to pay money they owe.
Like letting a friend pay you back next week instead of today.
The shopkeeper agreed to indulge the farmer until harvest.
Banks rarely indulge late payers these days.

Practice

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Origin

From the Latin word "indulgeo," meaning "I indulge."