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repentance

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noun re·pen·tance \ri-ˈpen-tən(t)s\

Definition of repentance

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

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Examples of repentance in a Sentence

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

Recent Examples of repentance from the Web

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'repentance'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of repentance

14th century

repentance Synonyms

Synonyms
contriteness, contrition, penitence, regret, remorse, remorsefulness, guilt, rue, self-reproach, shame
Antonyms
impenitence, remorselessness
Related Words
compunction, misgiving, prick, qualm, scruple; blame, culpability, fault; liability, rap, responsibility; chagrin, embarrassment; anguish, distress, grief, ruth, sadness, sorrow; bloodguilt, bloodguiltiness; apology, excuses, hand-wringing, mea culpa

Synonym Discussion of 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

Other Christian Religious Terms

Pentateuch, blasphemy, curate, doxology, eremite, iconoclasm, liturgy, orison, pneuma, reliquary

REPENTANCE Defined for Kids

repentance

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noun re·pen·tance \ri-ˈpen-təns\

Definition of repentance for Students

  1. :  the action or process of acknowledging regret for having done something wrong

Learn More about repentance

  1. See words that rhyme with repentance Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for repentance Spanish Central: Translation of repentance Nglish: Translation of repentance for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of repentance for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about repentance

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Examples: repentance in a Sentence
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