Definition

A person who makes amends or compensates for wrongdoing, often through a form of atonement.

Example

The expiator sought forgiveness for his past mistakes by helping others in need.

Conversation

I was reading about the concept of an expiator in literature.

Oh really? What does that mean exactly?

It refers to someone who makes amends for their wrongdoings.

That’s interesting! It sounds like a deep character role.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Expiator → It is formed from "ex-" (meaning out of or from) and "piare" (meaning to atone or make amends). An expiator is someone who makes amends or atones for wrongdoing, effectively bringing something out of a state of guilt or sin.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is bringing their guilt 'out' ('ex-') and 'making amends' ('piare') for their actions — that's what an expiator does.

Visually Confused Words