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

For organizations, the research offers some important new insights -- most notably the fact that leaders who seek to atone for intermittent bad behavior are often doing real harm to their employees.

From Science Daily

Prior to kick-off, Farrell said some of his players were "lucky" to get the opportunity to atone for their opening autumn performance.

From BBC

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

Ellis finished more than a minute ahead of the rest of the field to seal gold and atone for heartbreak in Tokyo three years ago.

From BBC

Related Words

• apologize
• redeem