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 qualify for debt forgiveness as part of the program, Illinois residents must have incomes at or below 400% of the federal poverty level, which is $63,840 a year for a single person or $132,000 for a family of four. —Lisa Schencker, Chicago Tribune, 18 Feb. 2026

Your 12th House of Secrets and Solitude brightens as the vibrant Sun invites rest, reflection, and forgiveness, helping your brave spirit release pressure. —Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 18 Feb. 2026

It’s also considered a time of forgiveness, when Muslims are encouraged to forgive and seek forgiveness. —Marina Johnson, IndyStar, 18 Feb. 2026

Scammers caught on to confusion around loans and forgiveness, an expert said. —Selina Wang, ABC News, 17 Feb. 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