atone
UK: əˈtəʊn | US: əˈtoʊn
vi. to make amends or reparations for a wrongdoing
vt. to reconcile or restore harmony (archaic)
atone = at<toward> + one<unity>
- at (from Old English æt, meaning "toward" or "in the direction of")
- one (from Old English ān, meaning "unity" or "single")
Etymology Origin:
The word "atone" originated in the early 16th century as a contraction of the phrase "at one," reflecting the idea of being "in harmony" or "reconciled." Over time, it evolved to specifically denote making amends for sins or wrongs, emphasizing the restoration of unity or balance. The morphemes "at" and "one" preserve the original spelling and logic of the word’s formation.
He sought to atone for his mistakes by volunteering.
She hoped her apology would atone for the misunderstanding.
In many cultures, rituals are performed to atone for transgressions.
The charity work was his way to atone for past selfishness.
True repentance requires more than words; actions must atone for the harm done.