absolution

An absolving of sins from ecclesiastical penalties by an authority.

Noun

  1. An absolving of sins from ecclesiastical penalties by an authority.
  2. The forgiveness of sins, in a general sense.
  3. The form of words by which a penitent is absolved.
  4. An absolving, or setting free from guilt, sin, or penalty; forgiveness of an offense.
    • Governments granting absolution to the nation.
    • The true aim of medicine is not to make men virtuous; it is to safeguard and rescue them from the consequences of their vices. The physician does not preach repentance; he offers absolution. - 1919 August, H. L....
  5. An acquittal, or sentence of a judge declaring an accused person innocent.

    Synonyms: acquittance assoilment compurgation absolution acquitment acquittal disculpation exculpation exoneration not guilty quittance vindication

  6. Delivery, in speech.
    • the words are chosen , their sound ample , the composition full , the absolution plenteous - 1641, Ben Jonson, Discoveries Made upon Men and Matter:

Origin

From Middle English absolucion, absolucioun, from Old French absolution, from Latin absolūtiōnem, accusative singular of absolūtiō (“acquittal”), from absolvō (“absolve”). See also absolve.

Forms

absolutions

Related

indulgence

Derived

absolutionary Absolution Day nonabsolution