atone
[ uh-tohn ]
/ əˈtoʊn /
verb (used without object), a·toned, a·ton·ing.
to make amends or reparation, as for an offense or a crime, or for an offender (usually followed by for): to atone for one's sins.
to make up, as for errors or deficiencies (usually followed by for): to atone for one's failings.
Obsolete. to become reconciled; agree.
verb (used with object), a·toned, a·ton·ing.
to make amends for; expiate: He atoned his sins.
Obsolete. to bring into unity, harmony, concord, etc.
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Nearby words
Origin of atone
First recorded in 1545–55; back formation from atonement
Related forms
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019
Examples from the Web for atone
British Dictionary definitions for atone
atone
/ (əˈtəʊn) /
verb
(intr foll by for) to make amends or reparation (for a crime, sin, etc)
(tr) to expiateto atone a guilt with repentance
obsolete to be in or bring into agreement
Derived Forms
atonable or atoneable, adjectiveatoner, nounWord Origin for atone
C16: back formation from atonement
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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