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

Themes of struggle and loss but also hope, forgiveness, and reconciliation run throughout Mandela’s autobiography. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 14 Sep. 2026

Two courts found on June 30, 2026, that the Department of Education did not have the authority to alter student loan forgiveness rules for the employees of nonprofits. — Elizabeth Schmidt, The Conversation, 11 Sep. 2026

Typically, people will try to make amends with each other and seek forgiveness for wrongdoings. — Bailey Allen, The Providence Journal, 10 Sep. 2026

Loans that didn't qualify for forgiveness had to be repaid with 1% interest. — Jc Reindl, Freep.com, 10 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