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.

2. (Civil Law) An acquittal, or sentence of a judge declaring and accused person innocent. [Obs.]

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.

Note: In the English and other Protestant churches, this act regarded as simply declaratory, not as imparting forgiveness.

4. (Eccl.) An absolving from ecclesiastical penalties, -- for example, excommunication. --P. Cyc.

5. The form of words by which a penitent is absolved. --Shipley.

6. Delivery, in speech. [Obs.]

--B. Jonson.

Absolution day (R. C. Ch.), Tuesday before Easter.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)