indulge
UK[ɪnˈdʌldʒ]US[ɪnˈdʌldʒ]
v
to allow yourself or another person to have something enjoyable, especially more than is good for you
v
to allow someone to have or do what they want, especially when this is not good for them
Etymology
the verb 'indulge' has a direct lineage from the latin 'indulgere', a compound whose exact roots are somewhat obscure but is thought to combine 'in-' (toward, in) with a root related to kindness or yielding. the core latin sense was one of granting a favor or showing leniency, often from a position of power or authority. this meaning evolved in english to encompass the act of allowing oneself or another a special pleasure or gratification, carrying the nuanced implication that such allowance might be excessive or not strictly beneficial. the modern usage retains this dual sense of gracious permission and potential over-gratification.
Analysis
the word is a simplex unit. it is derived from the latin verb 'indulgere', meaning "to be kind to, to yield to, to grant as a favor." it entered english in the early 17th century.
Examples
i'm going to indulge in a long bath this evening.
grandparents sometimes indulge their grandchildren with too many sweets.
he rarely indulges his taste for expensive wine.