Definition of expiate

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< expiable

expiation >

ex·pi·ate

(

) KEY

VERB:
ex·pi·at·ed, ex·pi·at·ing, ex·pi·ates
VERB:
tr.

To make amends or reparation for; atone: expiate one's sins by acts of penance.

VERB:
intr.

To make amends; atone.

ETYMOLOGY:
Latin expire, expit- : ex-, intensive pref. ; see ex- + pire, to atone (from pius, devout)

OTHER FORMS:
expi·ator(Noun)

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