Atone

WORD OF THE DAY

atone / verb / uh-TOHN

Definition
1a: to make amends
1b: to provide or serve as reparation or compensation for something bad or unwelcome —usually used with for
2a: to make reparation or supply satisfaction for
2b: expiate —used in the passive voice with for
2c (obsolete): reconcile

Examples
“After a childhood act of cowardice, Amir spends most of the play reflecting on and trying to atone for his failure to come to the aid of his best friend.”
— Laura Zornosa, The New York Times, 1 July 2022

A year after America’s shambolic withdrawal, Washington should do more to atone for its mistakes.
— Jonathan Schanzer, WSJ, 15 Aug. 2022

Did You Know?
Atone has its roots in the idea of reconciliation and harmony. It grew out of the Middle English phrase at on meaning “in harmony,” a phrase echoed in current expressions like “feeling at one with nature.”
When atone joined modern English in the 16th century, it meant “to reconcile,” and suggested the restoration of a peaceful and harmonious state between people or groups.
Today, atone specifically implies addressing the damage—or disharmony—caused by one’s own behavior.