absolve

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[edit] English

[edit] Etymology

15th Century, from Latin absolvere (to set free, to absolve), from ab- + solvere (to loose).

[edit] Pronunciation

[edit] Verb

Infinitive
to absolve

Third person singular
absolves

Simple past
absolved

Past participle
absolved

Present participle
absolving

to absolve (third-person singular simple present absolves, present participle absolving, simple past and past participle absolved)

  1. (transitive) To set free, release or discharge (from obligations, debts, responsibility etc.).
    You will absolve a subject from his allegiance.
    • 1855, Thomas Babington Macaulay, The History of England from the Accession of James II, volume III:
      Halifax was absolved by a majority of fourteen.
  2. (transitive) To pronounce free from or give absolution for a penalty, blame, sin or guilt.
  3. (transitive, theology) To pronounce free or give absolution from sin.
    • 1782, Edward Gibbon, History Of The Decline And Fall Of The Roman Empire, volume VI:
      In his name I absolve your perjury and sanctify your arms.
  4. (transitive, obsolete) To finish; to accomplish.
  5. (transitive, obsolete) To resolve or explain.

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[edit] Translations

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