guilty pleasure

[ gil-tee plezh-er ]

noun

1. an activity, habit, food, etc., that a person feels shame or guilt for enjoying, often because they feel they will be judged by others:

   TV shows meant for teens are a guilty pleasure many adults just can't get enough of.

   Eating healthfully is important, but treating yourself to a guilty pleasure from time to time is definitely not a crime.

Word History and Origins

Origin of guilty pleasure¹

First recorded in 1680–90

Example Sentences

The end result is a clear, unscented, biodegradable liquid about the viscosity of baby oil that allows you to indulge in a little guilty pleasure without feeling guilty about the environment.

From Los Angeles Times

That’s what we should be peddling to the world’s greatest athletes: Welcome to L.A., and to all the basic food groups — salt, fat, sugar and guilty pleasure.

From Los Angeles Times

Even among those who consider it a guilty pleasure, the Enquirer can hardly be described as a national treasure.

From Seattle Times

The guilty pleasure track is about falling for the quintessential bad boy and how it reflects negatively on who you are.

From Salon

“It’s an opportunity for people to really share their love of cinema, whether it be their favorite guilty pleasure, or their favorite movie of all time,” he said.

From New York Times