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Webster 1913 Edition

Absolution

Abˊso-lu′tion

,
Noun.
[F.
absolution
, L.
absolutio
, fr.
absolvere
to absolve. See
Absolve
.]
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)
An acquittal, or sentence of a judge declaring and accused person innocent.
[Obs.]
3.
(R. C. Ch.)
The exercise of priestly jurisdiction in the sacrament of penance, by which Catholics believe the sins of the truly penitent are forgiven.
☞ In the English and other Protestant churches, this act regarded as simply declaratory, not as imparting forgiveness.
4.
(Eccl.)
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.

Webster 1828 Edition

Absolution

ABSOLU'TION

,
Noun.
In the civil law, an acquittal or sentence of a judge declaring an accused person innocent. In the canon law, a remission of sins pronounced by a priest in favor of a penitent. Among protestants, a sentence by which an excommunicated person is released from his liability to punishment.

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