atone

[ uh-tohn ]

verb (used without object)

, a·toned, a·ton·ing.

1. to make amends or reparation, as for an offense or a crime, or for an offender (usually followed by for ):

   to atone for one's sins.

2. to make up, as for errors or deficiencies (usually followed by for ):

   to atone for one's failings.

3. Obsolete. to become reconciled; agree.

verb (used with object)

, a·toned, a·ton·ing.

1. to make amends for; expiate:

   He atoned his sins.

2. Obsolete. to bring into unity, harmony, concord, etc.

atone

/ əˈtəʊn /

verb

1. intrfoll byfor to make amends or reparation (for a crime, sin, etc)
2. tr to expiate

   to atone a guilt with repentance

3. obsolete.
   to be in or bring into agreement

Derived Forms

• aˈtoner, noun
• aˈtonable, adjective

Other Words From

• a·tona·ble a·tonea·ble adjective
• a·toner noun
• a·toning·ly adverb
• una·toned adjective
• una·toning adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of atone¹

First recorded in 1545–55; back formation from atonement

Word History and Origins

Origin of atone¹

C16: back formation from atonement

Example Sentences

Gov. Gavin Newsom and California lawmakers in 2020 touted a law to create a state task force to study and propose remedies to atone for the legacy of slavery.

From Los Angeles Times

Gov. Gavin Newsom and California lawmakers in 2020 touted a law to create a state task force to study and propose remedies to atone for the legacy of slavery.

From Los Angeles Times

Despite the bill signings, advocates for reparations have criticized the governor and Democratic lawmakers for making meager progress on its “first in the nation” effort to study, propose and adopt remedies to atone for slavery that began in 2020.

From Los Angeles Times

Reddy's party has also invited people to take part in religious rituals in temples across the state to "atone for the sin" that, they say, Naidu has committed by making allegations about the laddus.

From BBC

In 2024, it’s films like "The Front Room," "The Deliverance," and, although considerably suspenseful, "Blink Twice," that show Black women atone with their traumas, which hadn’t quite been confronted in traditional horrors.

From Salon

Related Words

• apologize
• redeem