repentance

noun

re·​pen·​tance ri-ˈpen-tᵊn(t)s 

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

Synonyms

• remorse
• guilt
• regret
• remorsefulness
• 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

The pic is a story about a gangster in modern-day Chicago, inspired by the repentance story of the fifth-century saint of the same name. —Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 5 Sep. 2025

In Christian lore, the sycamore also symbolizes repentance, humility, and forgiveness of one’s sins, evoked by the story of the tax collector Zacchaeus, who climbed one to see Jesus. —Ellen Walker, JSTOR Daily, 3 Sep. 2025

Typically, penitents would remain outside church gatherings, demonstrating their repentance by prostrating themselves, and then publicly confess. —Timothy Gabrielli, The Conversation, 25 Aug. 2025

Fasting creates space for reflection and repentance, Eisenberg said. —Natalie Davies, Freep.com, 6 Aug. 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