VocabDictionary

atonement

/əˈtoʊn.mənt/advanced Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

The action of making amends for a wrong or injury; reparation or expiation.

Example Sentences:
  • He offered his resignation as an act of atonement for his past professional failures.
  • The ritual was performed in atonement for the sins of the community.
Share & Learn With Friends

Share “atonement” with study groups, classmates, or on your social channels.

English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “atonement”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Middle English 'atone' (to be at one), which emerged in the early 16th century. It literally meant 'the state of being at one' or in harmony with God or another person, evolving from the phrase 'at one' + the suffix '-ment'.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'at-one-ment': You are trying to be 'at one' with someone again by fixing your mistake.

Frequently Asked Questions About “atonement

1. What is the meaning of “atonement” in English?

In English, atonement (noun) is defined as: “The action of making amends for a wrong or injury; reparation or expiation.”.

2. How do you use “atonement” in a sentence?

He offered his resignation as an act of atonement for his past professional failures.

3. What are English synonyms of “atonement”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “atonement”?

Derived from the Middle English 'atone' (to be at one), which emerged in the early 16th century. It literally meant 'the state of being at one' or in harmony with God or another person, evolving from the phrase 'at one' + the suffix '-ment'.