contriteness

noun

as in remorse
a feeling of responsibility for wrongdoing his determination to make things right again was seen as a sign of his sincere contriteness

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of contriteness Recently, however, pride has partly given way to contriteness as President Emmanuel Macron, aware of France’s legacy as a former heavy-handed empire, has attempted to make amends for mistakes during the country’s imperial past. — The Christian Science Monitor, Christian Science Monitor, 7 Aug. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for contriteness
  1. remorse
  2. guilt
  3. regret
Noun
  • The defense attorney said her client feels immense remorse for what both his family and Styles’ family have been through.
    — Rosalio Ahumada, Sacbee.com, 4 Aug. 2026
  • Sensing his son’s remorse for his hurtful words, dad was then able to have what seemed to be a helpful conversation with him about consent, accountability, and what to do when teasing crosses the line.
    — Christian Dashiell, Parents, 1 Aug. 2026
Definition of remorse
Noun
  • No decision has been made by a jury or judge as to my client's guilt.
    — Nadine El-Bawab, ABC News, 31 July 2026
  • Yet director Christopher Nolan, far more than Homer, goes on to plumb Odysseus’ existential collapse, shame and guilt.
    — Amy S. Badura-Brack, The Conversation, 30 July 2026
Definition of guilt
Noun
  • Perez Hilton has expressed deep regret, particularly for stirring panic and fear among Hollywood celebrities through his popular blogsite.
    — Etan Vlessing, HollywoodReporter, 6 Aug. 2026
  • Looking back at the work and seeing its effect on a new generation of filmmakers and fans, Araki has no regrets.
    — Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 3 Aug. 2026
Definition of regret

Browse Nearby Words

contrite
contriteness
contrition
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Cite this Entry

“Contriteness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contriteness. Accessed 7 Aug. 2026.

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