redemption

noun

re·​demp·​tion ri-ˈdem(p)-shən 

: the act, process, or an instance of redeeming

Examples of redemption in a Sentence

the redemption of his reputation

a sinner's search for redemption

Recent Examples on the Web

The 25-year-old’s redemption arc continued to curve at Newcastle United on Wednesday night. —Chris Waugh, New York Times, 7 Jan. 2026

McGhee’s humor and anticapitalist critique reminded me of George Saunders and Karen Russell; dopey, affable Abernathy also gets his redemption. —Erin Somers, The Atlantic, 6 Jan. 2026

The unexpectedly tender and touching friendship that forms between them breaks both men open, prompting them to reflect on their memories, regrets, and the possibility of redemption. —Radhika Seth, Vogue, 6 Jan. 2026

Jackman’s Robin Hood doesn’t steal from the rich to give to the poor in The Death of Robin Hood, instead seeking redemption for his past of crime and murder after suffering a major injury. —Lara Walsh, InStyle, 6 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English redempcioun, from Anglo-French redempcion, from Latin redemption-, redemptio, from redimere to redeem

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing redemption

• beyond/past redemption

Rhymes for redemption

• exemption
• preemption
• emption

Kids Definition

redemption

noun

re·​demp·​tion ri-ˈdem(p)-shən 

: the act or process or an instance of redeeming

redemptive

-ˈdem(p)-tiv

adjective

Legal Definition

redemption

noun

re·​demp·​tion ri-ˈdemp-shən 

: the act, process, or fact of redeeming see also equity of redemption, right of redemption

redemptive

-ˈdemp-tiv 

adjective