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

On Ash Wednesday, Catholics around the world attend Mass, receive ashes on their foreheads as a sign of repentance, and observe fasting and abstinence as prescribed by Church law. —Russel Honoré, Newsweek, 5 Mar. 2025

For those of the Christian faith — including Catholics, evangelicals and other denominations — the ritual of wearing ashes on one’s forehead symbolizes the dust from which God is believed to have created man and is an outward sign of repentance. —Heather McRea, Orange County Register, 5 Mar. 2025

People receive ashes on their foreheads on Ash Wednesday to symbolize repentance, mourning, and a desire for God’s mercy. —Helen H. Richardson, The Denver Post, 5 Mar. 2025

Berger’s Vatican caper lacks the tact and sensitivity in François Ozon’s superb By the Grace of God, even quickly dispensing the repentance of a disgraced African cardinal (Lucian Msamati). —Armond White, National Review, 19 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for repentance

• presentence
• sentence

Kids Definition

repentance

noun

re·​pen·​tance ri-ˈpent-ᵊn(t)s 

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