guilty pleasure

American  

[gil-tee plezh-er] / ˈgɪl ti ˈplɛʒ ər /

noun

1. an activity, habit, food, etc., that a person feels shame or guilt for enjoying, often because they feel they will be judged by others.

   TV shows meant for teens are a guilty pleasure many adults just can't get enough of.

   Eating healthfully is important, but treating yourself to a guilty pleasure from time to time is definitely not a crime.

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Etymology

Origin of guilty pleasure

First recorded in 1680–90

Example Sentences

In recent years, Hulu and Peacock — the latter of which is the streaming extension of Bravo’s parent company, NBCUniversal — have become ideal destinations for reality lovers over the network that was once synonymous with guilty pleasure reality TV viewing.

From Salon

It is very much a guilty pleasure of mine.

From The Wall Street Journal

Not everyone sees fruity martinis as a guilty pleasure.

From Salon

Professional football is America’s guilty pleasure—and guilty pleasures die hard.

From The Wall Street Journal

“The Hunting Wives” is a guilty pleasure; “Leanne” is an honest, simple one.

From Salon