1. To forgive or excuse one for committing some crime, wrong, or faux pas. I know that Mr. Reginald will be willing to pardon you for your theft if you return the stolen goods at once and offer a sincere, heartfelt apology. Can you ever pardon me for behaving so boorishly?

2. To issue a formal pardon that overturns one's conviction and releases one from prison. The governor pardoned several people for their wrongful convictions.

3. An angry, exasperated response to a criticism or rebuke that one feels is unwarranted or unjustified. (Any gerund verb that approximately means "living" can be used after "for.") A: "Would you please just sit down and stop trying to help? You're only getting in my way!" B: "Well, pardon me for breathing!" Pardon me for living—I was just suggesting you ask for directions!