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Expiating: meaning, definitions and examples

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expiating

 

[ ɛkˈspieɪtɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

making amends

Expiating means to atone for wrongdoing or guilt. It involves making reparations or taking steps to correct a moral offense. This term is often used in religious or philosophical contexts, where one seeks to reconcile their actions with a sense of justice or morality.

Synonyms

atoning, redeeming, reparating

Examples of usage

  • She is expiating her past mistakes through community service.
  • He hoped to expiate his guilt by confessing his wrongs.
  • They set out to expiate their actions with sincere apologies.

Word origin

The word 'expiate' comes from the Latin root 'expiāre', which means 'to atone' or 'to make amends'. This root is a combination of 'ex-' meaning 'out of' or 'away from', and 'piāre' meaning 'to appease' or 'to propitiate'. The use of this term has evolved over centuries, often being associated with religious practices, where individuals seek to reconcile their sins or moral failings through various forms of penance or sacrifice. The transition from Latin to English reflects the broader themes of guilt, accountability, and moral rectitude, making it a significant term in both ethical discourses and personal introspection.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,827, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.