atone

[ uh-tohn ]
/ əˈtoʊn /

verb (used without object), a·toned, a·ton·ing.

to make amends or reparation, as for an offense or a crime, or for an offender (usually followed by for): to atone for one's sins.
to make up, as for errors or deficiencies (usually followed by for): to atone for one's failings.
Obsolete. to become reconciled; agree.

verb (used with object), a·toned, a·ton·ing.

to make amends for; expiate: He atoned his sins.
Obsolete. to bring into unity, harmony, concord, etc.

Origin of atone

First recorded in 1545–55; back formation from atonement

OTHER WORDS FROM atone

Example sentences from the Web for atone

British Dictionary definitions for atone

atone
/ (əˈtəʊn) /

verb

(intr foll by for) to make amends or reparation (for a crime, sin, etc)
(tr) to expiate to atone a guilt with repentance
obsolete to be in or bring into agreement

Derived forms of atone

atonable or atoneable, adjective atoner, noun

Word Origin for atone

C16: back formation from atonement