Spoiled
“A person, typically a child, who has developed ungrateful, selfish, or demanding traits due to excessive indulgence and a lack of proper discipline.”
Synonyms by Register & Formality
Nuance Analysis & Word Contrasts
While 'spoiled' primarily functions as an adjective describing objects that have decayed or persons whose character has been damaged by overindulgence, using it as a noun highlights an entrenched identity of entitlement. It implies a moral or behavioral failing stemming not from innate malice, but from a persistent lack of boundaries and an excess of unearned privilege.
spoiled vs pampered
'Pampered' often carries a neutral or even gently positive connotation of physical comfort and luxury, whereas 'spoiled' strictly implies a negative corruption of character and attitude.
spoiled vs entitled
'Entitled' focuses specifically on the psychological mindset of believing one deserves special treatment, while 'spoiled' describes the developmental cause and behavioral outcome of being overly indulged.