What does absolution mean?
Absolution is a formal declaration of forgiveness or pardon, often granted in a religious or legal context. It involves a release from guilt or obligation, and is typically offered by a priest or other authorized figure. In a religious context, absolution is a key aspect of the sacrament of penance, allowing individuals to confess their sins and receive forgiveness. In a legal context, absolution may refer to a formal pardon or release from punishment, often granted in cases where the defendant has shown remorse or has been found not guilty. The concept of absolution has its roots in Latin, where the word absolvere means 'to free from.' Over time, the term has evolved to encompass a range of meanings, including forgiveness, pardon, and release. Despite its formal connotations, absolution is an important concept in many cultures and religions, offering a sense of redemption and renewal to those who receive it.
nounA formal declaration of forgiveness or pardon, especially in a religious context; a release from guilt or obligation.
- A formal declaration of forgiveness or pardon, especially in a religious context; a release from guilt or obligation.
"The priest offered absolution to the penitent sinner."
"The priest offered absolution to the penitent sinner."
"The judge granted absolution to the defendant, citing extenuating circumstances."
The plural form absolutions is used when referring to multiple instances of absolution, such as in a legal or religious context.
"The judge granted multiple absolutions to the defendants, citing extenuating circumstances."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of absolution
The word absolution has its roots in Latin, where the verb absolvere means 'to free from.' This Latin term is derived from the prefix ab-, meaning 'away from,' and the verb solvere, meaning 'to loosen.' The concept of absolution was later adopted into Old French as absolution, referring to the act of freeing or releasing someone from guilt or obligation. From there, the term was borrowed into Middle English, where it has evolved to encompass a range of meanings, including forgiveness, pardon, and release.
How absolution is actually used
In a religious context, absolution is typically granted by a priest or other authorized figure. In a legal context, absolution may refer to a formal pardon or release from punishment.