Atonement

Origin

Perhaps from atone + -ment; however, the noun is found earlier than the verb (atone); and in this light, the proper etymology is at + onement.

Full definition of atonement

Noun

1. A repair done for the sake of a damaged relationship.
2. (theology, often with capitalized initial) The reconciliation of God and mankind through the death of Jesus.

Derived terms

• blood atonement
• limited atonement
• vicarious atonement