verb
overindulge
oh-vuh-in-DULJ
Overindulge (verb) means to have too much of something enjoyable, especially food or alcohol. Example: “We rather overindulged at the buffet.”
verb
1
To have too much of something enjoyable, especially food or alcohol.
"We rather overindulged at the buffet."
"He overindulged on Christmas Eve and paid for it the next morning."
2
To give someone, especially a child, far more attention, treats or leeway than is good for them.
"Grandparents are allowed to overindulge the children a little."
How to use overindulge
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo have far too much of something nice.
When to use it
Neutral, slightly formal, often gently humorous about oneself.
Memory tip
Use 'in' for the substance — overindulge in cheese — and no preposition for a person — overindulge the dog.
Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
overindulge in
overindulge at Christmas
overindulgent parent
overindulge a child
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We rather _____ at the buffet.
Etymology
From over- plus indulge, which comes via Latin indulgere, meaning to be lenient or to give free rein to.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for overindulge
See all rhymes for overindulge →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between overindulge and binge?
Overindulge suggests pleasant excess, usually on a single occasion and often said with mild self-mockery. Binge is stronger and more clinical, implying loss of control and, in medical contexts, a recognised pattern of behaviour.
Is overindulge one word or hyphenated?
One word: overindulge, overindulgent, overindulgence. The hyphenated over-indulge appears in older British texts but is no longer the standard form.
What is the meaning of overindulge?
"overindulge" (verb) means to have too much of something enjoyable, especially food or alcohol.
What is another word for overindulge?
Other words for "overindulge" include overdo it, binge, gorge, go overboard, gormandise, engorge.
