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

Trees appear to weep over the sad land or bend a knee to beg forgiveness. — Lo Patrick, PEOPLE, 14 July 2026

The Coalition urges Congress to ensure that Tiered Standard payments count for PSLF, allowing more public servants access to forgiveness. — Adam S. Minsky, Forbes.com, 10 July 2026

The launch fits a familiar Silicon Valley pattern — ship products first, ask for forgiveness later. — Los Angeles Times, 9 July 2026

But there’s a savvy 2026 vibe about the way the film refuses to create florid melodrama out of quotidian crisis, and instead observes with generosity as the characters grope awkwardly toward emotional détente and mutual forgiveness. — Leslie Felperin, HollywoodReporter, 8 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