atonement Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun compensation for a wrong
    expiation; satisfaction.
    • we were unable to get satisfaction from the local store
  2. noun the act of atoning for sin or wrongdoing (especially appeasing a deity)
    expiation; propitiation.

WordNet

A*tone"ment noun
Definitions
  1. (Literally, a setting at one.) Reconciliation; restoration of friendly relations; agreement; concord. Archaic
    By whom we have now received the atonement. Rom. v. 11.
    He desires to make atonement Betwixt the Duke of Gloucester and your brothers. Shak.
  2. Satisfaction or reparation made by giving an equivalent for an injury, or by doing of suffering that which will be received in satisfaction for an offense or injury; expiation; amends; -- with for. Specifically, in theology: The expiation of sin made by the obedience, personal suffering, and death of Christ.
    When a man has been guilty of any vice, the best atonement be can make for it is, to warn others. Spectator.
    The Phocians behaved with, so much gallantry, that they were thought to have made a sufficient atonement for their former offense. Potter.

Webster 1913