Synonyms of absolution

absolution

noun

ˌab-sə-ˈlü-shən 

as in forgiveness

release from the guilt or penalty of an offense

the jury's verdict of "not guilty" was absolution in the eyes of the law, but the verdict would always be "guilty" in the court of public opinion

Synonyms & Similar Words

• forgiveness
• amnesty
• pardon
• remission
• immunity
• parole
• remittal
• vindication
• exoneration
• acquittal
• exemption
• indemnity
• exculpation
• impunity
• leniency
• clemency
• commutation
• condonation
• reprieve
• mercy
• commuting

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• punishment
• penalty
• retribution
• conviction
• sentence
• assessment
• imposition
• charge
• fine
• condemnation
• levying
• chastisement
• castigation
• chastening

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of absolution

Believers confess their sins to a priest, receive spiritual guidance and absolution and typically are required to make an act of contrition like saying specific prayers. —Corky Siemaszko, NBC news, 16 Apr. 2026

The priest goes with the mestizo, but the man refuses confession and dies without absolution. —Encyclopedia Britannica, 1 Apr. 2026

Many women who weighed in have welcomed the message of absolution. —Elaine Godfrey, The Atlantic, 10 Feb. 2026

Whatever absolution could be provided in the deaths of Michael, Marcy and Jennifer Jacobs or the disappearance of Ricky McCarthy would still mean something to their families. —Graham Womack updated January 15, Sacbee.com, 16 Jan. 2026