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

Grief, forgiveness and public scrutiny Lindsay Clancy has admitted to the killing of her three children from the very start. — Rebekah Riess, CNN Money, 21 Sep. 2026

These impositions are gradual and incredibly well-meaning, although even their medicinal intentions come laced with the word of a foreign lord and savior, whose crucifixes and tales of forgiveness are at odds with the local rituals. — Siddhant Adlakha, Variety, 20 Sep. 2026

To me, this period of seeking forgiveness from those around us is at least as profound and perhaps even more difficult. — Marvin Krislov, New York Daily News, 19 Sep. 2026

The act of forgiveness, Neiden tells me, was on his mind when crafting the show. — Todd Martens, Los Angeles Times, 18 Sep. 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