WordWeight : Weighing the Words

Pronunciation : Ab`so*lu"tion
Part of Speech : n.
Etymology : [F. absolution, L. absolutio, fr. absolvere to absolve. See Absolve.]
Definition : 1. An absolving, or setting free from guilt, sin, or penalty; forgiveness of an offense. "Government . . . granting absolution to the nation." Froude.

2. (Civil Law)

Defn: An acquittal, or sentence of a judge declaring and accused person innocent. [Obs.]

3. (R. C. Ch.)

Defn: The exercise of priestly jurisdiction in the sacrament of penance, by which Catholics believe the sins of the truly penitent are forgiven.

Note: In the English and other Protestant churches, this act regarded as simply declaratory, not as imparting forgiveness.

4. (Eccl.)

Defn: An absolving from ecclesiastical penalties, -- for example, excommunication. P. Cyc.

5. The form of words by which a penitent is absolved. Shipley.

6. Delivery, in speech. [Obs.] B. Jonson. Absolution day (R. C. Ch.), Tuesday before Easter.


Source : Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, 1913