Redeem Meaning

Redeem

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. To compensate for faults or bad aspects of something.
2. To save someone or something from sin, error, or evil.
3. To exchange something, such as a coupon or voucher, for goods, services, or money.
4. To fulfill a promise or pay off a debt.
5. To regain possession of something by paying a price or clearing a commitment.

History and Origin

The word “redeem” comes from the Latin redimere, a combination of re- (again) and emere (to buy), meaning “to buy back.” It entered English through Old French redimer in the late Middle Ages. Initially, it referred to the act of regaining something through payment or fulfilling obligations, later expanding to include spiritual salvation and compensating for wrongs.

Detailed Explanation

“Redeem” has a wide range of meanings depending on context. It can refer to compensating for past mistakes, such as improving one’s reputation. In religious contexts, it often means saving someone from sin or evil. In finance or commerce, “redeem” is used to describe the act of exchanging vouchers, paying off debts, or reclaiming items pawned or mortgaged. It also relates to fulfilling promises or restoring value to something previously diminished.

Example Sentences

1. He worked hard to redeem his reputation after the scandal.
2. The religious text speaks about how faith can redeem a person from sin.
3. She redeemed her gift card at the store for a new pair of shoes.
4. The government redeemed the bonds it had issued earlier.
5. He pledged to redeem the mortgage on his house by the end of the year.
6. Her heartfelt apology helped redeem their friendship.
7. The team managed to redeem itself after a disappointing performance last season.
8. The loyalty program allows customers to redeem points for discounts.
9. The hero’s selfless act redeemed his earlier mistakes.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Compensate – To make amends or provide something as a balance for loss or harm.
2. Atone – To make up for a wrongdoing or sin.
3. Repay – To return something owed or make up for a debt.
4. Exchange – To trade one item for another, often of equal value.
5. Retrieve – To regain possession of something lost or pledged.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Salvation – Deliverance from harm, sin, or loss, often used in religious contexts.
2. Forgiveness – The act of pardoning someone for their mistakes or offenses.
3. Reparation – Making amends for a wrong or harm done.
4. Restoration – Returning something to its original condition or position.
5. Repentance – The act of expressing regret for one’s sins or wrongdoings.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Fulfill – To complete a promise or obligation.
2. Clear – To settle a debt or remove an obstacle.
3. Reclaim – To retrieve or recover something previously lost.
4. Resolve – To fix or settle an issue or problem.
5. Reimburse – To pay back money or compensate for expenses.

Antonyms

1. Forfeit
2. Lose
3. Condemn
4. Abandon
5. Neglect