Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Atoning: meaning, definitions and examples

🕊️
Add to dictionary

atoning

 

[əˈtoʊ.nɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

moral reconciliation

Atoning refers to the act of making amends or reparation for wrongdoing or injury. It often encompasses a sense of moral responsibility, where an individual seeks to correct past mistakes or actions that caused harm or offense. Atonement can take various forms, such as apologizing, performing charitable acts, or engaging in self-reflection to change one's behavior. This term is commonly associated with religious practices, where individuals seek forgiveness and reconciliation with a higher power.

Synonyms

amends, compensation, expiation, redemption, reparation.

Examples of usage

  • She is atoning for her past mistakes.
  • He spent years atoning for his decision.
  • The community came together for atoning rituals.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'atoning' emerged from the phrase 'at one', which represents the idea of reconciliation and being united.
  • It was first recorded in English in the 16th century, reflecting the growing importance of personal responsibility and moral correction.

Religious Contexts

  • In Christianity, atoning is often associated with repentance and seeking forgiveness from God for one’s sins.
  • Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement in Judaism, emphasizes the importance of reflection and seeking forgiveness from others and God.

Literature

  • Classic literature often explores themes of atonement, as characters seek redemption for their past actions, such as in Leo Tolstoy's 'Anna Karenina'.
  • The novel 'Atonement' by Ian McEwan explores the consequences of a youthful mistake and the lifelong quest for forgiveness and redemption.

Psychology

  • Research in psychology indicates that recognizing and addressing past wrongs can lead to emotional healing and improved mental health.
  • The act of atoning has been studied as a crucial aspect of personal growth, helping individuals to develop empathy and responsibility.

Cultural Practices

  • Different cultures have unique practices for atonement, from the cleansing rituals in indigenous cultures to secular apologies in public life.
  • Some societies view atonement as communal, where groups collectively seek to address historical injustices.

Translations

Translations of the word "atoning" in other languages:

🇵🇹 expiando

🇮🇳 प्रायश्चित करना

🇩🇪 sühnen

🇮🇩 menebus

🇺🇦 спокутування

🇵🇱 zadośćuczynienie

🇯🇵 贖罪する

🇫🇷 expiation

🇪🇸 expiación

🇹🇷 telafi etme

🇰🇷 속죄하다

🇸🇦 تكفير

🇨🇿 smíření

🇸🇰 zmierenie

🇨🇳 赎罪

🇸🇮 odpuščanje

🇮🇸 bót

🇰🇿 кешірім алу

🇬🇪 განკურნება

🇦🇿 bəraət

🇲🇽 expiación

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,554, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.