The word "redeem" generally means to recover or regain something by making a payment or fulfilling an obligation. In a broader sense, it can also refer to saving or rescuing something from loss, failure, or dishonor. For example, to redeem oneself means to improve one's situation or reputation after a setback. Additionally, in a religious context, it can refer to the salvation or liberation of humanity.
The word "redeem" comes from the Latin term "redimere," where "re-" means "again" and "emitere" means "to buy" or "to purchase." Thus, "redeem" historically conveys the idea of buying back something.