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absolution
absolution
Noun
This term carries a heavy weight of formality and solemnity, often evoking the image of a ritualistic cleansing. In religious contexts, it refers to the official act of a cleric declaring a penitent free from sin, shifting the burden of guilt from the individual to a divine authority.
In secular usage, the word describes a profound psychological release. It is less about a simple apology and more about the total removal of a stigma or the granting of a clean slate, often sought after a period of intense remorse or public failure.
Meanings
Examples
He seeks absolution.
Related Words
forgivenesspardonexonerationacquittalremissionclemencyamnestycondemnationconvictionsentencepunishmentdamnationpenanceconfessionsinguiltremorseatonementredemptionpriestclergysacramentpenitencecontritionmercygracesalvationshrivingpenitentabsolutionabsolveexculpatevindicatedischargereleaseliberationcleansingpurificationpietymoralityethicsconscienceshameregrettransgressionoffensecrimefaultwrongdoingjudgmentcourtverdictlawjusticelegaljudicialpurgatoryheavenhelldivinitytheologyfaithreligionchurchliturgyprayerblessingbenedictionindulgencereconciliationpeaceharmonyforgive