atonement

Etymology

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

noun

  1. Making amends to restore a damaged relationship; expiation.
    1697-1698, John Potter, Archaeologia Graeca The Phocians behaved themselves with so much gallantry, that they were thought to have made a sufficient atonement for their former offense.
  2. (theology, often with capitalized initial) The reconciliation of God and mankind through the death of Jesus.
  3. (archaic) Reconciliation; restoration of friendly relations; concord.

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