pardon

¹par·don

noun \ˈpär-d^ən\

Definition of PARDON

1

: indulgence 1

2

: the excusing of an offense without exacting a penalty

3

a : a release from the legal penalties of an offense b : an official warrant of remission of penalty

4

: excuse or forgiveness for a fault, offense, or discourtesy <I beg your pardon>

Examples of PARDON

1. The governor granted him a pardon.
2. He asked my pardon for taking so much of my time.

Origin of PARDON

Middle English, from Anglo-French pardun, pardoun, from parduner

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to PARDON

Synonyms: absolution, amnesty, forgiveness, remission, remittal

Antonyms: penalty, punishment, retribution

Related Words: parole; acquittal, exculpation, exoneration, vindication; condonation; exemption, immunity, impunity, indemnity; commutation, commuting, reprieve; clemency, leniency, mercy

Near Antonyms: conviction, sentence; assessment, charge, fine, imposition, levying; castigation, chastening, chastisement, condemnation

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Rhymes with PARDON

Arden, Dardan, garden, harden