conscience money

American  

noun

1. money paid, often anonymously, to relieve one's conscience, as for an obligation previously evaded or a wrong done.

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conscience money British  

noun

1. money paid voluntarily to compensate for dishonesty, esp money paid voluntarily for taxes formerly evaded

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Etymology

Origin of conscience money

First recorded in 1840–50

Example Sentences

In its statement today, the bank said “with the target interest rate near historic lows and the financial system functioning well, there is considerable monetary policy stimulus in Canada.”

From BusinessWeek • Oct. 25, 2011

In July, the central bank said “some of the considerable monetary policy stimulus currently in place will be withdrawn,” while at its Sept.

From BusinessWeek • Oct. 25, 2011

She made immediate plans; cancelled her present engagement at considerable monetary loss to herself, and almost before any of them realised it, had vanished to a little out-of-the-way spot in Brittany, alone with Jean.

From Winding Paths by Page, Gertrude

A Glasgow merchant of modest manners, when cross-examined in a law court, stated that he had a considerable monetary interest in a certain concern.

From An Edinburgh Eleven Pencil Portraits from College Life by Barrie, J. M. (James Matthew)

My reply was two weeks' notice, and a considerable monetary gift to soften the blow.

From The Book of Susan A Novel by Dodd, Lee Wilson