indulging

[ in-duhl-jing ]

adjective

1. yielding to an inclination or desire, as by eating or drinking, engaging in a pleasurable activity, etc.:

   The chocolaty sweetness in this zucchini loaf makes it perfect for the indulging dieter and fussy eater alike.

2. yielding to someone’s wishes or whims in a lenient or permissive way; indulgent:

   The menu was quite extensive, and the indulging father let his children order whatever they wanted.

noun

1. the act of yielding to one’s own or another’s inclination, desire, or whim; indulgence:

   The primary consequence of the indulging of greed is an increase of greed.

Other Words From

• in·dulg·ing·ly adverb
• un·in·dulg·ing adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of indulging¹

First recorded in 1660–70; indulge ( def ) + -ing ²( def ) for the adjective senses; indulge ( def ) + -ing ¹( def ) for the noun sense

Example Sentences

Robyn is trying to clean up her act but can’t resist indulging Sharon’s long-repressed wild side.

From Los Angeles Times

Although Trump long wanted to perform at Madison Square Garden, indulging this desire with just over a week to go before the election could prove damaging.

From Salon

Officials say strict laws are necessary and are aimed at deterring people from indulging in unhygienic practices around food, but opposition leaders and legal experts have questioned the efficacy of these laws and allege that they could also be misused to vilify a specific community.

From BBC

This evening, I’ll stay at the Dana Point Marina Inn with my two hiking companions, outdoor author Tom Courtney and his wife, Heidi, indulging in a full night’s rest at an oceanside lodge before the next day’s trek.

From Los Angeles Times

Labelled the great "cookie controversy" and "Crumblgate" by commentators, the doughy drama has sparked debate online - prompting calls for legal action to be taken against the sellers, as well as jabs against those willing to pay such an exorbitant amount simply to be pictured indulging in the latest trendy treat.

From BBC

Related Words

• entertain
• nourish
• pamper
• satiate
• satisfy
• spoil
• take care of
• tickle