indulgence
UK: ɪnˈdʌl.dʒəns | US: ɪnˈdʌl.dʒəns
n. 1. The act of allowing oneself or someone else to enjoy something desired, often excessively.
n. 2. (Religion) A remission of punishment for sins, granted by the Catholic Church.
n. 3. Tolerance or leniency toward others' weaknesses.
indulgence = in<toward> + dulge<be kind/yield> + ence<noun suffix>
- in: Latin prefix meaning "toward" or "into."
- dulge: Derived from Latin indulgēre ("to be kind, yield to"), combining in- + dulgēre ("to be fond of").
- ence: Noun-forming suffix indicating a state or quality (from Latin -entia).
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin indulgentia ("leniency, fondness"), reflecting a sense of yielding to desires or showing kindness. Over time, it evolved to encompass both secular (excessive enjoyment) and religious (forgiveness of sins) meanings, highlighting humanity's dual relationship with desire and mercy.
Her indulgence in chocolate became a daily habit.
The priest granted an indulgence to the repentant sinner.
Parents should balance discipline with indulgence.
His indulgence toward his employees earned him their loyalty.
The spa weekend was a rare indulgence for the overworked executive.