Confessed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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confessed

[kษ™nหˆfษ›st ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

admit wrongdoing

To confess means to acknowledge or admit to having done something wrong or illegal. This term is often used in contexts involving personal guilt, crimes, or secrets. The act of confessing can be seen as a means of seeking forgiveness or making amends for oneโ€™s actions. Confessions can take place in various settings, including religious, therapeutic, or legal environments.

Synonyms

acknowledge, admit, disclose, reveal.

Examples of usage

  • He confessed to stealing the money.
  • She confessed about her mistake in the project.
  • The suspect finally confessed during the interrogation.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Religion

  • In many religions, admitting wrongdoings is considered an important step toward forgiveness.
  • Confession plays a critical role in practices like Catholicism, where it is a sacrament that brings spiritual cleansing.
  • In Buddhism, admitting faults is seen as a way to attain personal growth and better karmic outcomes.

Psychology

  • Confessing can reduce feelings of anxiety and guilt, providing a sense of relief or catharsis.
  • Research shows that sharing secrets can strengthen relationships, as it builds trust and intimacy.
  • The act of admitting one's mistakes can improve mental health, leading to a greater sense of self-acceptance.

Pop Culture

  • Confessions are a common theme in movies and literature, highlighting character development and moral dilemmas.
  • Social media has given rise to 'confession pages', where users share secrets anonymously, illustrating the modern need to express hidden truths.
  • Songs often explore the theme of confession, portraying struggles with guilt and the quest for redemption.

Law

  • In legal settings, a confession refers to an admission of guilt, which can impact sentencing and trial results.
  • The Miranda Rights inform individuals of their right to remain silent, emphasizing the importance of informed confession.
  • Confessions obtained under coercion are often deemed inadmissible in court to protect the rights of the accused.

Origin of 'confessed'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'confiteri', meaning 'to acknowledge'.
  • Over time, it evolved through Old French before entering the English language in the late 14th century.
  • The prefix 'con-' means 'with' and 'fess' relates to 'speak', emphasizing the idea of speaking with someone about the truth.

The word 'confess' traces its origins to the Latin word 'confessus', which is the past participle of 'confiteri'. This Latin term is a combination of 'con-' meaning 'together' and 'fateri' meaning 'to admit or acknowledge'. The term made its way into Middle English during the 14th century, signifying the act of making a full or frank admission. Historically, confessions have played a crucial role in various religious practices, particularly in Christianity, where confession involves the acknowledgment of sins to a priest. Over time, the concept of confession expanded beyond religion into legal and social contexts, reflecting a desire for honesty and accountability.


Word Frequency Rank

At #7,498 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.