Definition of "atone" in English

verb

1. (ambitransitive) To make reparation, compensation, amends or satisfaction for an offence, crime, mistake or deficiency.

   • He tried to atone for his mistakes by working harder.
   • She gave a donation to atone for her past actions.
   • The ritual was performed to atone for sins.

2. (obsolete, transitive) To bring at one or at concordance; to reconcile; to suffer appeasement.

3. (obsolete, intransitive) To agree or accord; to be in accordance or harmony.

4. (obsolete, transitive) To unite in making.

5. (proscribed) To absolve (someone else) of wrongdoing, especially by standing as an equivalent.