Definition

A person who immigrated to America in the past, especially during the 18th and 19th centuries, and paid for their journey by agreeing to work for a certain time as a servant.

Example

Many redemptioners came to America seeking a better life, often working for years to pay off their passage.

Conversation

Did you know that many immigrants were redemptioners in the 18th century?

Really? I had no idea what that meant before.

Yeah, they worked to pay off their passage to America.

That sounds like a tough way to start a new life.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Redemptioner → It is formed from "redemptio" (from Latin, meaning a buying back or recovery) and "-er" (meaning a person who). A redemptioner is a person who redeems or buys back something, often referring to someone who pays off a debt or obligation.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'buying back' ('redemptio') something — that's why a redemptioner is a person who redeems.

Visually Confused Words