Main Entry: con·trite

Pronunciation: \ˈkän-ˌtrīt, kən-ˈ\

Function: adjective

Etymology: Middle English contrit, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin contritus, from Latin, past participle of conterere to grind, bruise, from com- + terere to rub — more at throw

Date: 14th century

: feeling or showing sorrow and remorse for a sin or shortcoming <a contrite criminal> <a contrite apology> <contrite sighs>

— con·trite·ly adverb

— con·trite·ness noun