repentance

noun

re·​pen·​tance ri-ˈpen-tᵊn(t)s 

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

Synonyms of repentance

• 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

At the same time as Ramadan this year, Christians around the world are observing lent, a 40-day period of fasting, repentance and spiritual discipline ahead of the Easter celebration. —Lauren Costantino, Miami Herald, 28 Feb. 2026

Its release coincides with the start of the Christian season of Lent, a period of repentance, self-reflection and resistance to temptation. —Marc Ramirez, USA Today, 24 Feb. 2026

Christians were celebrating Ash Wednesday, a day of repentance that marks the beginning of the recognition of the forty days that Jesus spent fasting in the desert. —Emilia Otte, Hartford Courant, 19 Feb. 2026

Nearly 500 Angelenos at the Mass received the smudge of a cross on their foreheads, made from the ashes of the palms burned on Palm Sunday, a symbol of repentance for one’s sins. —Julianna Lozada, Daily News, 18 Feb. 2026

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