English Reference
noun

redemption

n.
US /ɹɪˈdɛmpʃən/ UK /ɹɪdˈɛmpʃən/ re·demp·tion UK spelling redemptions

  1. 01 C1 Advanced Formal Religion

    the state of being saved from the power of evil or sin.

    the action of saving or being saved from sin, error, or evil in a theological context.

    Simple

    Many people visit the temple to pray for spiritual redemption.

    In context

    The sermon focused on the possibility of divine redemption for even the most hardened of sinners.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Technical Finance

    the act of exchanging a document, like a bond or coupon, for money or goods.

    the action of regaining possession of a security or clearing a debt by paying a specific sum.

    Simple

    The redemption of the bonds will happen at the end of the ten-year period.

    In context

    Investors were warned that the early redemption of their shares might result in a significant penalty fee.

    Usage

    Often used regarding bonds, shares, or pawned items.

    repaymentexchangecashing in

The women are as self-delusional and/or unpleasant as the men, and everyone, ultimately, is offered a chance at redemption.

The Guardian· 14 Aug 2026

He ultimately finds redemption by using his training to organize an evacuation by boat.

Smithsonian Magazine· 28 Jul 2026

From Middle English redempcioun, from Old French redemption, from Latin redemptio. Doublet of ransom. Displaced native Old English ālīesung, ālīesnes.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Latin redemptio
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated