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redeem

v.
US //ɹɪˈdim// UK //ɹɪdˈiːm// re·deem
  1. 1 to compensate for a fault (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    to make a bad situation or person seem better by doing something good.

    to offset the negative effects of a flaw or mistake through a positive quality or action.

    Example

    The film was quite boring, but the beautiful ending helped to redeem it.

    Example

    The protagonist spends the final act attempting to redeem himself in the eyes of his family after years of neglect.

    Usage

    Often used in the passive voice or with a reflexive pronoun like 'himself' or 'themselves'.
  2. 2 to exchange a voucher (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Finance

    to trade a coupon, voucher, or points for goods, services, or money.

    to exchange a document, voucher, or digital code for its equivalent value in goods or cash.

    Example

    You can redeem your reward points for a gift card at any of our stores.

    Example

    Investors may choose to redeem their shares for cash once the fund reaches its maturity date.
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  1. 3 to fulfill a promise (v.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    to do what you promised you would do.

    to carry out or fulfill a pledge, promise, or obligation.

    Example

    The politician struggled to redeem the promises he made during the election.

    Example

    The governor was determined to redeem his pledge to lower taxes before the end of his term.
Origin

From Middle English redemen, modified from Old French redimer, from Latin redimō (“release; obviate; atone for”), itself from red- (“back; again”) + emō (“buy; gain, take, procure”).

Word family
Idioms1 entry

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