absolve

The story

1. Latin · derived fromabsolvere“set free, acquit”
2. Middle English · inherited fromabsolven
3. English todayabsolve

First attested in the early 15th century. From Middle English absolven, from Latin absolvere (“set free, acquit”), from ab (“away from”) + solvō (“loosen, free, release”). Doublet of assoil.

First known use, by meaning

• First attested around 1350 to 1470. To set free, release or discharge (from obligations, debts, responsibility etc.).
• Attested from the late 15ᵗʰ century until the mid 17ᵗʰ century. To resolve; to explain; to solve.
• First attested in the mid 16ᵗʰ century. To pronounce free from or give absolution for a penalty, blame, or guilt.
• First attested in the mid 16ᵗʰ century. To pronounce not guilty; to grant a pardon for.
• First attested in the mid 16ᵗʰ century. To grant a remission of sin; to give absolution to.
• First attested in the late 16ᵗʰ century. To remit a sin; to give absolution for a sin.
• Attested from the late 16ᵗʰ century until the early 19ᵗʰ century. To finish; to accomplish.