atone
verb (used without object)
to make amends or reparation, as for an offense or a crime, or for an offender (usually followed byfor ).
is atoning
-
present progressiveof atone (3rd person singular).present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“He is atoning for his sins, but as part of the plea deal the prosecution forced him to testify against the company he helped built,” Necheles told jurors.
From Seattle Times ● Dec. 1, 2022
And now this Florida Keys clan, its Kennedyesque luster irrevocably tarnished, is atoning for its sins.
From New York Times ● May 26, 2017
It's as though the label is atoning on our behalf for pop's artificiality and sonic profligacy, taking us back to basics with some real and raw rock'n'roll.
From The Guardian ● Jul. 6, 2012
But let us pause for a moment to remember what “redeeming” actually is: atoning or making up for some mistake or wrongdoing.
From New York Times ● Jan. 25, 2011
Vivisection became a passion with him, but Mademoiselle Bernard is atoning for her father's cruelty by a singular devotion to animals, and none are turned from her gates.
From Concerning Cats My Own and Some Others by Helen M. Winslow
