atonement

noun

atone·​ment ə-ˈtōn-mənt How to pronounce atonement (audio)
1
: reparation for an offense or injury : satisfaction
a story of sin and atonement
He wanted to find a way to make atonement for his sins.
2
: the reconciliation of God and humankind through the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ
3
Christian Science : the exemplifying of human oneness with God
4
obsolete : reconciliation

Examples of atonement in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Two paragons of concern and atonement are accomplished British pianist Paul Barton and his wife Khwan Barton, a wildlife artist. Anthony R. Cannella, Hartford Courant, 13 June 2025 Preston sees Elsbeth being about a woman reinventing herself later in life while also seeking atonement. Alamin Yohannes, EW.com, 6 June 2025 The film received criticism from GLAAD and other groups for its trans representation, but its bold, bright, bizarre visions of identity and atonement will linger with viewers. Sara Netzley, EW.com, 7 May 2025 Speaking with Kandi Burruss on The Morning Hustle, the two reflected on the moment they were pulled to the side for the Brooklyn rapper’s atonement. Demicia Inman, VIBE.com, 2 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for atonement

Word History

Etymology

see atone

First Known Use

1513, in the meaning defined at sense 4

Time Traveler
The first known use of atonement was in 1513

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Atonement.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/atonement. Accessed 8 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

atonement

noun
atone·​ment ə-ˈtōn-mənt How to pronounce atonement (audio)
1
: the return to a state of love and harmony between God and human beings through the death of Jesus Christ
2
: something that makes up for an offense or injury
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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