absolution Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun the condition of being formally forgiven by a priest in the sacrament of penance
noun the act of absolving or remitting; formal redemption as pronounced by a priest in the sacrament of penance
remittal; remission of sin; remission.

F. absolution, L. absolutio, fr. absolvere to absolve. See Absolve.

An absolving, or setting free from guilt, sin, or penalty; forgiveness of an offense. "Government . . . granting absolution to the nation." Froude.
(Civil Law) An acquittal, or sentence of a judge declaring and accused person innocent. Obs.
(R. C. Ch.) The exercise of priestly jurisdiction in the sacrament of penance, by which Catholics believe the sins of the truly penitent are forgiven. ✍ In the English and other Protestant churches, this act regarded as simply declaratory, not as imparting forgiveness.
(Eccl.) An absolving from ecclesiastical penalties, -- for example, excommunication. P. Cyc.
The form of words by which a penitent is absolved. Shipley.
Delivery, in speech. Obs. B. Jonson.