Absolving Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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absolving

[əbˈzɒlvɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

legal context

Declare (someone) free from guilt, obligation, or punishment.

Synonyms

acquit, exonerate, forgive, pardon.

Examples of usage

  • The court absolved him of all charges.
  • She was absolved from her debts.
  • The priest absolved him of his sins.
Context #2 | Verb

religious context

Grant remission of sin to (a person).

Synonyms

forgive, pardon, redeem, wash away.

Examples of usage

  • The priest absolved him of his sins.
  • She went to confession to be absolved.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Law

  • In legal terms, absolving can refer to a judge or jury deciding that someone is not guilty of a crime.
  • The concept of absolution in law can mean releasing an individual from legal obligations or penalties.

Religion

  • In many religious contexts, absolving is often associated with forgiveness, where a priest may absolve sins during confession.
  • The concept is central to Christianity, indicating that through forgiveness, a person's sins are wiped clean.

Psychology

  • Absolution can have psychological implications, as forgiving others can lead to personal relief and reduced anxiety.
  • In therapy, the process of absolving oneself of guilt can be part of healing and moving forward.

Literature

  • Absolution and themes of forgiveness are prevalent in classic literature, often highlighting character growth.
  • Many authors explore the conflict between guilt and the desire for absolution in their narratives, making it a complex human experience.

Origin of 'absolving'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'absolvere', meaning 'to set free' or 'to release'.
  • It is composed of 'ab-' (away) and 'solvere' (to loosen), which together convey the idea of loosening from blame.

The word 'absolving' originates from the Latin word 'absolvere', which means 'to set free, acquit'. The concept of absolution has been present in both legal and religious contexts throughout history, with the idea of being declared free from guilt or sin. In the legal sense, absolving someone means relieving them of any blame or responsibility, while in the religious sense, it involves granting forgiveness and remission of sins. The word has evolved over time to signify a form of liberation or pardon.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,609 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.