forgiveness

noun

for·​give·​ness fər-ˈgiv-nəs 

fȯr-

: the act of forgiving

I ask for your forgiveness.

Synonyms of forgiveness

• amnesty
• pardon

Examples of forgiveness in a Sentence

She treats us with kindness and forgiveness.

they asked her forgiveness for failing to invite her to the party

Recent Examples on the Web

As well as realization that everyone deserves love, empathy, and forgiveness. —Luke Chinman, PEOPLE, 17 June 2026

More optimistic borrowers increased spending on durable goods—including cars and, in some cases, homes—while waiting for loan forgiveness that never arrived. —Catherina Gioino, Fortune, 17 June 2026

Starting July 1, changes introduced in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act last year will add new caps on federal student loans, as well as restrictions on loan forgiveness and repayment programs. —Evan Zimmer, CNBC, 17 June 2026

For the past three years, Costa, Celeboglu and Simmonds developed the story and script to capture a young deaf girl’s authentic experience as the film examines themes including the complexity of love, violence and forgiveness. —Angelique Jackson, Variety, 16 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for forgiveness

• liveness

Kids Definition

forgiveness

noun

for·​give·​ness fər-ˈgiv-nəs 

fȯr-

: the act of forgiving : pardon