adjective
- intended to make amends for or atone for guilt, wrongdoing, or offense
Usage: formal; often used in religious or moral contexts
Examples
- The defendant made an expiatory gesture by donating to the victim's family.
- Many religions include expiatory rituals to cleanse sin or wrongdoing.
- She felt an expiatory need to volunteer after her mistake caused harm.
- The expiatory sacrifice was central to ancient religious practices.
- His expiatory efforts included a public apology and restitution.
- The monastery performed expiatory prayers for the community.