# absolution

/ˌæbsəˈɫuʃən/ (US) · /ˌæbsəlˈuːʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/absolution
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

a formal statement that says someone is not guilty of a crime or a sin. It is often used in religious or legal contexts to clear a person's name.

For teachers: the formal act of releasing someone from guilt or punishment for a crime or sin. Often used in legal or ecclesiastical contexts to signify a formal clearance.

## Examples

- The judge gave him a full absolution for his mistake.
- After years of being a suspect, the suspect finally received a public absolution when the evidence was proven to be false.
- The king granted a royal absolution to the traitor, effectively erasing the historical record of his rebellion and allowing him to return to court.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.