repentance

noun

re·​pen·​tance ri-ˈpen-tᵊn(t)s 

: the action or process of repenting especially for misdeeds or moral shortcomings

Synonyms

• contriteness
• contrition
• guilt
• penitence
• regret
• remorse
• remorsefulness
• rue
• self-reproach
• shame

Choose the Right Synonym for repentance

penitence, repentance, contrition, compunction, remorse mean regret for sin or wrongdoing.

penitence implies sad and humble realization of and regret for one's misdeeds.

absolution is dependent upon sincere penitence

repentance adds the implication of a resolve to change.

repentance accompanied by a complete change of character

contrition stresses the sorrowful regret that constitutes true penitence.

tearful expressions of contrition

compunction implies a painful sting of conscience especially for contemplated wrongdoing.

had no compunctions about taking back what is mine

remorse suggests prolonged and insistent self-reproach and mental anguish for past wrongs and especially for those whose consequences cannot be remedied.

thieves untroubled by feelings of remorse

Examples of repentance in a Sentence

preached that repentance was the first step on the path of redemption

Recent Examples on the Web

That visit genuinely happened (the devout Chisholm believed in forgiveness…and repentance), but Ridley hits a wrong note by staging the encounter as if the two were old college chums. —Owen Gleiberman, Variety, 16 Mar. 2024

The Jewish holiday, which begins this year on the evening of Sept. 24, is considered the holiest day of the year — a time of deep introspection, fasting and repentance, which Jews have traditionally honored by spending the day in synagogue in a collective act of prayer, meditation and atonement. —Deborah Netburn, Los Angeles Times, 13 Sep. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

repentance

noun

re·​pen·​tance ri-ˈpent-ᵊn(t)s 

: the action or process of repenting especially for one's sins