Remission

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /ɹɪˈmɪʃ(ə)n/

Definitions

  1. A temporary or permanent decrease or disappearance of disease symptoms, especially in cancer or chronic illnesses
  2. A phase marked by the reduction or absence of symptoms of a disease, especially in chronic conditions such as cancer, indicating a possible improvement or stabilization of health
  3. A state characterized by a diminished or absent presentation of illness symptoms, particularly in long-term health conditions like cancer, suggesting possible healing or improvement

Etymology: The word emerged in English in the late Middle Ages, around the 14th century, primarily within religious contexts. It originally described the act of forgiving sins or the pardoning of offenses, closely linked to the Latin root "remissio," meaning "a sending back" or "release." This sense of releasing or sending back was often applied to the idea of sending back or letting go of guilt, emphasizing a merciful release from penalty or punishment. Its Latin ancestor, "remissio," derives from the verb "remittere," which combines "re-" meaning "back" and "mittere" meaning "to send." The literal notion was to send something back or to relax restraint. This physical sense of loosening or lessening naturally extended into more abstract ideas such as the remission of debts or the easing of severity in various contexts. By the 16th century, the term broadened beyond strictly spiritual forgiveness to include medical usage, referring to the temporary or permanent disappearance of symptoms of a disease. This shift reflects the original sense of "release" or "letting go," now applied to the body’s condition rather than moral or legal standing. It is this metaphorical loosening—of symptoms rather than guilt—that allowed the word to gain a more general usage. Over time, the meaning expanded further to include any kind of reduction or cancellation, such as the remission of a penalty or a fee. Although the spiritual origins remain evident, the word’s journey from a specific religious pardon to a versatile term for various forms of relief showcases the flexibility of language in adapting concrete physical actions into abstract concepts.

Synonyms: abatement, relief, reprieve, pardon, forgiveness

Antonyms: punishment, penalty, retribution, condemnation, malady