atonement

Definition of atonementnext

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of atonement Galliano also emphasized that an exhibition or other public recognition could not substitute for accountability, describing atonement as an ongoing responsibility. Daisy Maldonado, InStyle, 31 Aug. 2026 In between getting ready for the new year and writing down your atonements, here are upcoming events to keep in mind — everything from a lively Shabbat geared toward young adults to a shopping event featuring local businesses. Jessica Tzikas, Sun Sentinel, 18 Aug. 2026 Like an act of poetic atonement, America sent the great-great-great-great-grandson of a slave back, as a diplomat, to the country whence his ancestor had been kidnapped. Anne Haley, Time, 11 Aug. 2026 For starters, there is one urgent mission the pope must take on the road to atonement. Laura Washington, Mercury News, 9 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for atonement
Recent Examples of Synonyms for atonement
Noun
  • The idea for Evanston's reparations program took root in 2019, when Robin Rue Simmons, then a councilmember representing the city's historic Black neighborhood, the 5th Ward, was researching why its Black population was shrinking.
    Adrian Florido, NPR, 14 Sep. 2026
  • Jamaica’s petition is an effort to expand the political campaign for reparations into the legal realm, Grange said.
    ABC News, ABC News, 7 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • 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
  • Those responses reminded me that asking for forgiveness isn’t only a religious ritual or an abstract idea.
    Marvin Krislov, New York Daily News, 19 Sep. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Atonement.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/atonement. Accessed 23 Sep. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on atonement

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!