atoned; atoning

intransitive verb

: 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

transitive verb

1
: to make reparation or supply satisfaction for : expiate
used in the passive voice with for
a crime that must be atoned for
2
obsolete : reconcile

Did you know?

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
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 See All Example Sentences for atone

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, to become reconciled, from at on in harmony, from at + on one

First Known Use

1574, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of atone was in 1574

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Cite this Entry

“Atone.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/atone. Accessed 27 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

atone

verb
atoned; atoning
: to do something to make up for a wrong that has been done
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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