amende

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CIDE DICTIONARY

amende, n. [F. See Amend.].

A pecuniary punishment or fine; a reparation or recantation. [1913 Webster]

Amende honorable (. (Old French Law) A species of infamous punishment in which the offender, being led into court with a rope about his neck, and a lighted torch in his hand, begged pardon of his God, the court, etc. In popular language, the phrase now denotes a public apology or recantation, and reparation to an injured party, for improper language or treatment.