Absolution Meaning
/æb.səˈljuː.ʃn̩/Definition, CEFR level C2, pronunciation, examples, and quiz.
Listen pronunciation
Definition
nounAn absolving of sins from ecclesiastical penalties by an authority.
nounThe forgiveness of sins, in a general sense.
Sentence Examples
The priest read the prayers of absolution over Tom after hearing his confession.
Government ... granting absolution to the nation.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
None
CEFR Practice Quiz
The priest granted ____ after the sinner confessed.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
He sought ____ for his sins by confessing to the priest.
Word Origin & History
From Middle English absolucion, absolucioun, from Old French absolution, from Latin absolūtiōnem, accusative singular of absolūtiō (“acquittal”), from absolvō (“absolve”). See also absolve.
Literary Quotations & Historical Citations
"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. Mencken, The Smart Set, pages 60–1:
"the words are chosen , their sound ample , the composition full , the absolution plenteous"
— 1641, Ben Jonson, Discoveries Made upon Men and Matter:
Explore More C2 Vocabulary Words
CEFR Practice Quiz
The priest granted ____ after the sinner confessed.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
He sought ____ for his sins by confessing to the priest.