English · Word Candidate

pardon

/ˈpɑːdn̩/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: pardons · pardoning · pardoned

Sense 1

Meaning · English

Forgiveness for an offence.

Noun

Examples

[…] a step, that could not be taken with the least hope of ever obtaining pardon from or reconciliation with any of my friends; […]

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

An order that releases a convicted criminal without further punishment, prevents future punishment, or (in some jurisdictions) removes an offence from a person's criminal record, as if it had never been committed.

Noun

Examples

The President[…]shall have Power to grant Reprieves and Pardons for Offences against the United States, except in Cases of Impeachment.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

To forgive (a person).

Verb

Examples

O, pardon me, thou bleeding piece of earth, / That I am meek and gentle with these butchers!

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

To refrain from exacting as a penalty.

Verb

Examples

I pardon thee thy life before thou ask it.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “pardon” mean?

Forgiveness for an offence.

Is “pardon” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.