Entry Word: redeem

Function: verb

Meaning: 1 to do what is required by the terms of <our dad redeemed his pledge to take us out for pizza if we aced the exam> — see fulfill 1
2 to free from captivity or punishment by paying a price <the government has consistently refused to redeem hostages captured by terrorists> — see ransom
3 to free from the penalties or consequences of sin <the belief that sinners are redeemed by their faith in God> — see save 1
4 to make better in behavior or character <made a determined effort to redeem himself in his neighborsʼ eyes> — see reform 1