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

Check your credit card debt forgiveness qualifications here. —Matt Richardson, CBS News, 10 June 2026

This also means future Parent PLUS borrowers will no longer be able to qualify for either a plan that offers forgiveness after a set period of time or for PSLF. —Cory Turner, NPR, 10 June 2026

The qualities that sustain healthy families, including honesty, accountability, forgiveness, and sacrifice, cannot be purchased or given. —David H. Rosmarin, Time, 10 June 2026

The drivers were known for accuracy and forgiveness on mishits. —Langston Wertz Jr, Charlotte Observer, 9 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