Redeem Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/rɪˈdiːm/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Verb

Definition

To compensate or make up for something, especially a fault or mistake. To exchange or trade something for something else, especially a coupon or voucher for a reward or discount.

Examples

• She redeemed her coupon for a free coffee.
• He redeemed himself by apologizing for his mistake.

Synonyms

• Compensate
• Exchange
• Make up for

Antonyms

• Fail to make up for
• Reject
• Decline

Additional Information

Redeem is a versatile verb that can be used in a variety of contexts. In everyday language, it often refers to exchanging a coupon or voucher for a reward or discount. In a more abstract sense, it can mean to compensate or make up for something, especially a fault or mistake. For example, someone who has made a mistake may redeem themselves by apologizing and making amends.

In religious contexts, redeem often refers to salvation or spiritual redemption. For example, the idea of Jesus as a redeemer is a central theme in Christianity.

Redeem can also be used in more formal or technical contexts, such as in finance or economics. For example, a company may redeem bonds or stocks by paying off their face value.

Etymology

Redeem comes from the Old English word “redeman,” which means “to buy back” or “to ransom.” This word is derived from the Proto-Germanic word “raþiz,” which is also the source of the Modern English word “read.” Over time, the spelling and meaning of the word have evolved to its current form.

Usage Notes

Redeem is often used in formal or technical contexts, but it can also be used in everyday language. When using the word, be sure to consider the context and the intended meaning. For example, in a financial context, redeem may refer to paying off a debt or exchanging a security for its face value. In a more abstract sense, it may refer to making up for a mistake or compensating for a fault.

Cultural References

Redeem has appeared in various forms of popular culture, including music, literature, and film. For example, the song “Redeemed” by Big Daddy Weave is a popular Christian song that refers to spiritual redemption. In literature, the concept of redemption is a central theme in many works, including “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• Redeem oneself: to make up for a mistake or fault
• Redeem a coupon: to exchange a coupon for a reward or discount
• Redeem a promise: to fulfill a promise or obligation

Related Words or Phrases

• Compensate
• Exchange
• Make up for
• Salvation
• Redemption

Collocations

• Redeem a coupon
• Redeem oneself
• Redeem a promise
• Redeem a debt

Frequency of Use

Redeem is a moderately common word in modern language. According to the Corpus of Contemporary American English, it is used approximately 1.5 times per million words.

Common Misspellings

• Redeem is often misspelled as “redem” or “redim.”
• Other common misspellings include “redeme” and “redemn.”