atoned; atoning
: to make amends : to provide or serve as reparation or compensation for something bad or unwelcome
—usually + for
He wanted to atone for his sins.
But I think that he has within him a capacity for love, and an unselfishness, which almost atones for his dishonesty.—
Anthony Trollope
Anthony Trollope
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Atone has its roots in the idea of reconciliation and harmony. It grew out of the Middle English phrase at on meaning “in harmony,” a phrase echoed in current expressions like “feeling at one with nature.” When atone joined modern English in the 16th century, it meant “to reconcile,” and suggested the restoration of a peaceful and harmonious state between people or groups. Today, atone specifically implies addressing the damage—or disharmony—caused by one’s own behavior.
Examples of atone in a Sentence
tried to atone for forgetting their anniversary by giving his wife a truly extravagant gift
Recent Examples on the Web
The Jesuits are leading an effort to atone for a past of slavery.
—Nicole Fallert, USA TODAY, 17 Feb. 2025
The top unit atoned for that play later in the period with a beautiful team goal.
—Corey Masisak, The Denver Post, 28 Jan. 2025
In a desperate attempt to atone for his error, Rogers fouls Lucas Michel on the edge of the box.
—Jacob Tanswell, The Athletic, 21 Jan. 2025
For many Israelis, the government and security forces can never atone for the lapses that allowed October 7 to happen.
—Amos Harel, Foreign Affairs, 29 Jan. 2025
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Nicole Fallert, USA TODAY, 17 Feb. 2025
The top unit atoned for that play later in the period with a beautiful team goal.
—Corey Masisak, The Denver Post, 28 Jan. 2025
In a desperate attempt to atone for his error, Rogers fouls Lucas Michel on the edge of the box.
—Jacob Tanswell, The Athletic, 21 Jan. 2025
For many Israelis, the government and security forces can never atone for the lapses that allowed October 7 to happen.
—Amos Harel, Foreign Affairs, 29 Jan. 2025
See All Example Sentences for atone
Cite this Entry
“Atone.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/atone. Accessed 27 Feb. 2025.
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