forgiveness

noun

for·​give·​ness fər-ˈgiv-nəs How to pronounce forgiveness (audio)
fȯr-
Synonyms of forgivenessnext
: the act of forgiving
I ask for your forgiveness.

Synonyms of forgiveness

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Examples of forgiveness in a Sentence

She treats us with kindness and forgiveness. they asked her forgiveness for failing to invite her to the party
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Which student loan borrowers qualify for public service loan forgiveness in 2026? — Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 5 Aug. 2026 His campaign is specifically boosting a change to Brazil's income tax system that charges less to people on low incomes and a debt forgiveness program that has quickly become very popular. — ABC News, 2 Aug. 2026 At the same time, borrowers are reporting increasing problems and errors that are delaying or derailing their ability to maintain access to affordable repayment plan programs and student loan forgiveness. — Adam S. Minsky, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for forgiveness

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of forgiveness was before the 12th century

Rhymes for forgiveness

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Browse Nearby Words

forgive me
forgiveness
forgiver
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Cite this Entry

“Forgiveness.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/forgiveness. Accessed 13 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

forgiveness

noun
for·​give·​ness fər-ˈgiv-nəs How to pronounce forgiveness (audio)
fȯr-
: the act of forgiving : pardon

More from Merriam-Webster on forgiveness

Nglish: Translation of forgiveness for Spanish Speakers

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