Meaning & Definition of word "Atone"

Atone

/əˈtoʊn/

verb:

  • 1. to make amends or reparation for a wrongdoing or an offense
    • Example: He tried to atone for his mistakes by volunteering at the local shelter.
  • 2. to reconcile or make up for something that has caused harm or hurt
    • Example: After years of neglecting her family, she sought to atone with heartfelt apologies.
  • 3. to expiate or to seek forgiveness for one’s actions
    • Example: The criminal attempted to atone for his crimes by confessing to the authorities.
  • 4. to offset or balance out a previous action, particularly in a moral or spiritual sense
    • Example: He donated a large sum of money to charity to atone for his earlier indifference.

Etymology

Middle English: from atone 'in accord, in harmony', from 'at one' with.

Common Phrases and Expressions

atone for one's sins:

to make amends for wrongdoings in a moral or spiritual context.

atone with:

to reconcile with someone after a disagreement.

Related Words

expiate:

To make amends for guilt or wrongdoing.

redress:

To remedy or set right a wrong or grievance.

Slang Meanings of atone

Meaning: Make things right.

Example Sentence: He needs to atone for that mistake, or no one will trust him again.

Meaning: Payback for bad behavior.

Example Sentence: She's got to atone; there will be consequences for her actions.