amends

[ uh-mendz ]

noun

, (used with a singular or plural verb)

1. reparation or compensation for a loss, damage, or injury of any kind; recompense.

   Synonyms: restitution, redress

2. Obsolete. improvement; recovery, as of health.

amends

/ əˈmɛndz /

noun

1. functioning as singular recompense or compensation given or gained for some injury, insult, etc

   to make amends

Word History and Origins

Origin of amends¹

First recorded in 1275–1325; Middle English amendes, from Middle French, plural of amende “reparation,” noun derivative of amender “to repair, correct errors in, improve the condition of”; amend

Word History and Origins

Origin of amends¹

C13: from Old French amendes fines, from amende compensation, from amender to emend

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. make amends, to compensate, as for an injury, loss, or insult:

   I tried to make amends for the misunderstanding by sending her flowers.

More idioms and phrases containing amends

see make amends .

Example Sentences

Thursday's legal filing amends a lawsuit filed in a California court in August, and also includes LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman being added as a defendant.

From BBC

The measure amends the state Constitution to recognize a “fundamental right to marry, regardless of sex or race.”

From Los Angeles Times

Reparations are measures to make amends for past actions deemed wrong or unfair.

From BBC

The superseding document amends and replaces the original indictment.

From Los Angeles Times

Finch concluded her post by saying she is committed to making amends — even if that will take some time.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• apology
• redress
• reparation
• restitution