Expiate

/ˈɛk.spi.eɪt/

Meaning & Definition

verb
to make amends or reparation for guilt or wrongdoing; to atone.
He sought to expiate his past mistakes by volunteering for community service.
to help remove or cleanse the guilt associated with a sin or transgression.
The penitent wished to expiate his sins through prayer and good deeds.
to extinguish the guilt incurred by a wrongdoing.
The ritual was intended to expiate the wrongdoings of the community.
to make amends or reconciliation, especially through suffering.
She felt that giving back to the community was a way to expiate for her earlier selfish behavior.

Etymology

From Latin 'expiatus', past participle of 'expiāre' meaning to atone, appease.

Common Phrases and Expressions

expiate one's sins:
To make amends for one's wrongdoing or moral failings.
expiate guilt:
To atone for feelings of guilt through actions or remorse.

Related Words

Slang Meanings