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

To choose forgiveness instead of revenge is an ultimate act of emotional intelligence that really draws on all four of the core skills. — Kevin Kruse, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026

Loans couldn’t enter default during this time, and federal programs designed to help delinquent borrowers and debt forgiveness initiatives brought millions out of default. — Nicky Forster, Fortune, 20 July 2026

Jelly Roll’s gonna need a favor of forgiveness from Kansas City Royals fans after Wednesday night. — Lisa Gutierrez, Kansas City Star, 16 July 2026

Trees appear to weep over the sad land or bend a knee to beg forgiveness. — Lo Patrick, PEOPLE, 14 July 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