Remission

As a Noun

1. A decrease or temporary end of symptoms in a disease or medical condition.
2. The cancellation or reduction of a debt, penalty, or obligation.
3. A period of relief from suffering or difficulty.
4. In religious contexts, forgiveness of sins or moral wrongdoing.

As Other Form

• Remit (Verb): To cancel, reduce, or forgive a debt or punishment.
• Remissive (Adjective): Relating to forgiveness or reduction.

Word History

The word remission comes from the Latin remissio, meaning “a sending back” or “relaxation,” derived from remittere (“to send back, relax, or forgive”). It has been used in English since the 14th century in medical, financial, and religious contexts.

Examples

1. The cancer went into remission after treatment.
2. The court granted remission of his fines.
3. She felt a brief remission from her chronic pain.
4. Many religions teach the remission of sins through repentance.

Synonyms

Relief, reduction, forgiveness, suspension, abatement

Related Words

Alleviation, reprieve, leniency, pardon, healing

Antonyms

Worsening, continuation, increase, penalty, punishment