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Definition of absolve

absolve

/əbˈzɑːlv/
ab · solve
Adjective:absolvable
•
Past Simple:absolved
•
Past Participle:absolved
•
Present Participle:absolving
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absolve Lexical Profile

absolve Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To grant ecclesiastical remission of sins to a penitent person (in Christian theology).

Example

"Following confession, the priest absolved the parishioner of his sins."

2

To declare someone free from guilt, obligation, or punishment.

Example

"The official inquiry absolved the director of any personal responsibility for the financial losses."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for absolve

• Nearby Words

absoluteness
absolution
absolutist
absolve
absorb
absorbable
absorbed

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed from Latin 'absolvere', meaning 'to set free or acquit', formed from the prefix 'ab-' ('away from') and 'solvere' ('to loosen or untie').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Absolve. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/absolve
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