Pronunciation: [ɐtˈə͡ʊn] (IPA) 
The word "atone" is spelled with three letters and pronounced as /əˈtoʊn/. The first sound is a schwa, which is represented by the letter "a". The second sound is "t", followed by a long "o" sound represented by the letter "o". The final sound is "n", which is represented by the letter "e". Though the word looks and sounds simple, its meaning connotes a deep sense of remorse and a desire to make up for one's wrongdoings.
The term "atone" is a transitive verb that refers to the act of making amends or seeking reconciliation for a wrongdoing or mistake. It involves the acknowledgment, acceptance, and expression of remorse or regret for one's actions. The process of atoning often requires individuals to actively take steps to compensate or rectify the harm caused, aiming to achieve forgiveness or restore harmony with others.
To atone is to demonstrate sincere repentance or contrition, typically through a heartfelt apology, restitution, or acts of reparation. It involves assuming responsibility for one's actions and seeking to make up for the damage or distress caused to others. Atoning may involve both external actions and inner reflection, as individuals strive to transform themselves and learn from their past misdeeds.
Atoning is often driven by a genuine desire to heal wounds, repair relationships, or regain moral integrity. It requires humility and a willingness to confront one's mistakes, acknowledging the harm inflicted upon others. Through the act of atonement, individuals strive not only to make right the wrongs committed, but also to grow and become better versions of themselves.
In religious contexts, atonement may refer to the act of seeking forgiveness from a higher power or making recompense to adhere to the tenets of faith. It is regarded as a process of redemption, restoration, and seeking forgiveness from the divine.
Overall, the concept of atoning encompasses acts of restitution, reconciliation, and personal growth as individuals seek to mend their wrongdoings, finding solace in the act of making amends.
To agree; to make amends; to give satisfaction for an offence or a crime; to expiate by sacrifice; to reconcile.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "atone" derives from Middle English "at(o)nen" which means "to be at one" or "to be in agreement". It is formed by combining the prefix "at-" (meaning "completely" or "together") with the Old English word "ān" (meaning "one" or "alone"). The original sense of "atone" suggested making amends, reaching reconciliation, or restoring harmony, which is still reflected in its modern usage.
