redemption

/rɪˈdɛmpʃɪn/

/rɪˈdɛmpʃən/

Other forms: redemptions

Redemption is the buying back of something. You might try for redemption by attempting to buy back a bike you sold, or you might attempt to buy back your soul after you steal someone else’s bike.

Redemption comes from the Latin word redimere, a combination of re(d)-, meaning “back,” and emere, meaning “buy.” Redemption is what some people claim happens to your soul when you're saved from evil forces. You might pray for redemption — to the tooth fairy, to Zeus, or to some other kind of invisible being — in the hopes that an all-powerful being can save your soul. Redemption can also refer to the repayment of a debt.

Definitions of redemption

1. noun

   the act of purchasing back something previously sold
   synonyms: buyback, repurchase

   type of:

   purchase

   the acquisition of something for payment
2. noun

   repayment of the principal amount of a debt or security at or before maturity (as when a corporation repurchases its own stock)
   type of:

   quittance, repayment

   payment of a debt or obligation
3. noun

   (theology) the act of delivering from sin or saving from evil
   synonyms: salvation

   types:

   absolution, remission, remission of sin, remittal

   the act of absolving or remitting; formal redemption as pronounced by a priest in the sacrament of penance

   conversion, rebirth, spiritual rebirth

   a spiritual enlightenment causing a person to lead a new life

   atonement, expiation, propitiation

   the act of atoning for sin or wrongdoing (especially appeasing a deity)

   indulgence

   the remission by the pope of the temporal punishment in purgatory that is still due for sins even after absolution

   proselytism

   the state of being a proselyte; spiritual rebirth resulting from the zeal of crusading advocacy of the gospel

   amends, reparation

   something done or paid in expiation of a wrong

   type of:

   deliverance, delivery, rescue, saving

   recovery or preservation from loss or danger