1. (n.) Forgiveness or setting free from guilt, sin, or penalty; forgiveness of an offense\.

2. (n.) An acquittal, or sentence of a judge declaring and accused person innocent.

3. (n.) The exercise of priestly jurisdiction in the sacrament of penance, by which Catholics believe the sins of the truly penitent are forgiven.

4. (n.) An absolving from ecclesiastical penalties, -- for example, excommunication.

5. (n.) The form of words by which a penitent is absolved.

6. (n.) Delivery, in speech.

acquittal acquittance amnesty clearance clearing compurgation condonation destigmatization destigmatizing discharge disculpation dismissal exculpation excuse exemption exoneration forgiveness grace immunity indemnity pardon purgation purging quietus quittance redemption release remission remission of sin reprieve shrift sparing verdict of acquittal vindication