verb
redeem
To restore worth after fault or wrongdoing.
She redeems herself after the mistake by taking full responsibility.
Etymology
The Latin verb means to buy back. Restoring someone or something's worth extends that recovery image to making amends for a fault.
More examples
- A moving ending redeems an otherwise disappointing movie.
- He hopes to redeem his reputation through honest work.
- They believe God's grace can redeem them from sin.
Forms
redeem · redeems · redeemed · redeeming
redemption noun — Recovery of worth after wrongdoing or failure.
Similar words
- atone
- Emphasizes making amends for wrongdoing rather than restoring worth.
- compensate
- Emphasizes balancing a loss or disadvantage, not restoring character.
- rehabilitate
- Emphasizes restoring someone's reputation or standing after disgrace.