Ex`pi*a"tion (?), n. [L. expiatio: cf.F. expiation] 1. The act of making satisfaction or atonement for any crime or fault; the extinguishing of guilt by suffering or penalty.

His liberality seemed to have something in it of self- abasement and expiation.

2. The means by which reparation or atonement for crimes or sins is made; an expiatory sacrifice or offering; an atonement.

Those shadowy expiations weak,
The blood of bulls and goats.

3. An act by which the threats of prodigies were averted among the ancient heathen. [Obs.] Hayward.