English Explanatory Dictionary

penitence

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. The condition of being penitent; a feeling of regret or remorse for doing wrong or sinning.

Pronunciation

pĕnʹĭ-təns

Word forms

penitence penitences pænitence

Etymology

First attested circa 13th century, from Middle English penitence, from Old French penitence, from Latin paenitentia (“repentance, penitence”), from paenitēns (“penitent”), present active participle of paeniteō (“regret, repent”). Equivalent to penitent + -ence. Doublet of penance.

Synonyms

compunction contrition remorse repentance penance atonement
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