Definition

A special permission given by the pope in the Roman Catholic Church that allows someone to not follow a specific church law.

Example

The priest received an indult to allow the use of a different ritual during the service.

Conversation

I heard that the church is giving an indult for certain practices this year.

Really? That sounds interesting! What does it mean exactly?

An indult is basically a permission to do something that’s usually not allowed.

Got it! So, it's like a special exemption for a specific situation.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Indult is derived from the Latin "indultus" (meaning granted or allowed), which comes from "in-" (meaning not) and "dultus" (from "dulgere", meaning to soften or yield). The term originally referred to a permission or concession granted by a higher authority, particularly in ecclesiastical contexts.

Memory Tip

Think of 'granted' or 'allowed' — 'indult' means a special permission that has been given.

Visually Confused Words