from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Absolution \Ab`so*lu"tion\, n. [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.
[1913 Webster]
2. (Civil Law) An acquittal, or sentence of a judge declaring
and accused person innocent. [Obs.]
[1913 Webster]
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.
[1913 Webster]
Note: In the English and other Protestant churches, this act
regarded as simply declaratory, not as imparting
forgiveness.
[1913 Webster]
4. (Eccl.) An absolving from ecclesiastical penalties, -- for
example, excommunication. --P. Cyc.
[1913 Webster]
5. The form of words by which a penitent is absolved.
--Shipley.
[1913 Webster]
6. Delivery, in speech. [Obs.] --B. Jonson.
[1913 Webster]
{Absolution day} (R. C. Ch.), Tuesday before Easter.
[1913 Webster]