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