amnesty
UK: ˈæmnəsti | US: ˈæmnəsti
n. an official pardon for people convicted of political offenses
n. a general overlooking or forgiveness of past offenses by a government or authority
amnesty = a<not> + mnes<memory> + ty<noun suffix>
- a (Greek prefix "a-") means "not" or "without."
- mnes (from Greek "mnēsis") means "memory" or "remembrance."
- ty (noun-forming suffix) indicates a state or condition.
Etymology Origin:
The word "amnesty" originates from the Greek "amnēstia," meaning "forgetfulness" or "pardon." It combines "a-" (not) + "mnes-" (memory), reflecting the idea of "not remembering" past offenses. The term evolved in Latin as "amnestia" before entering English in the 16th century, retaining its core meaning of an official act of forgiveness, particularly for political crimes.
The government declared an amnesty for political prisoners.
The new leader promised amnesty to rebels who surrendered.
Amnesty International advocates for human rights worldwide.
The king granted amnesty to all exiles on his coronation day.
Critics argued the amnesty law would encourage further crimes.