Penitent Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
penitent
[หpษnษชtษnt ]
Definitions
feeling
Feeling or expressing remorse for one's misdeeds or sins; repentant.
Synonyms
regretful, remorseful, repentant.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| penitent |
This word is often used in religious or moral contexts to describe someone who feels sorrow and seeks forgiveness for their sins or wrongdoings.
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| remorseful |
This word describes a deep sense of guilt and sorrow for a wrongdoing and is often used when someone feels intense guilt about their actions.
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| repentant |
Similar to 'penitent,' this word is often used in religious or moral contexts to describe someone who not only feels regret but is also determined to make amends and change their behavior.
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| regretful |
This word is commonly used to describe a feeling of sadness or disappointment over something that has happened or been done, without necessarily seeking forgiveness.
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Examples of usage
- He was deeply penitent for his actions.
- She spoke in a soft, penitent voice.
religion
A person who repents their sins and seeks forgiveness.
Synonyms
contrite, remorseful, repentant.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| penitent |
This word is often used in religious contexts or formal situations to describe someone who feels regret or sorrow for their sins or wrongdoings and who seeks forgiveness.
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| repentant |
This term is generally used in religious contexts or settings where a person feels a profound sorrow and seeks to make amends for their wrong actions. It implies a desire to change and improve.
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| contrite |
This word is suitable for more literary or sophisticated contexts, describing a deep and sincere remorse for having done something wrong. It often carries an emotional weight.
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| remorseful |
It is used in everyday conversations to describe someone who feels deep regret for a specific mistake or wrongdoing. It conveys a strong sense of guilt.
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Examples of usage
- The penitents gathered in the church to seek absolution.
- She lived the rest of her life as a penitent, seeking redemption.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Religion
- In many religious traditions, being penitent is an important step in seeking forgiveness from a higher power.
- Confession in Christianity often involves a penitent acknowledgment of sins and a desire for absolution.
- Many faiths include rituals or practices specifically designed for the penitent, emphasizing the journey towards redemption.
Psychology
- Feelings of penitence can lead to positive changes in behavior, promoting personal growth and moral development.
- Psychologically, guilt can motivate individuals to correct their wrong actions, fostering empathy and social bonds.
- Research suggests that expressing penitence can enhance relationships by restoring trust and understanding.
Literature
- Penitential themes appear frequently in classic literature, often illustrating a character's moral struggle.
- Danteโs 'Divine Comedy' features the penitent in Purgatory, symbolizing the journey towards redemption.
- Contemporary authors use penitence to explore complex emotional landscapes, reflecting human flaws.
Pop Culture
- Music often captures themes of penitence, with songs depicting regretful love and the longing for forgiveness.
- Movies frequently showcase characters undergoing a journey of penitence, illustrating their desire for atonement.
- Social media has made public displays of penitence more common, with individuals posting apologies for their mistakes.
Origin of 'penitent'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'paenitens', meaning 'to regret' or 'to feel sorry'.
- In English, it emerged in the 14th century, reflecting feelings of remorse and contrition.
- The root word relates to 'pain', showing how regret can hurt emotionally.
The word 'penitent' originated from the Latin word 'paenitent-' (stem of paenitens), present participle of paenitere 'make sorry', from paene 'almost' + a base of unknown origin. The concept of penitence has deep roots in religious and moral traditions, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and seeking forgiveness for one's wrongdoings.