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

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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
  • But what ultimately saves the film is Hathaway's remarkable restraint in conveying Kym's deep pain and remorse over an unimaginable family tragedy.
    — Patrick Ryan, USA Today, 15 Aug. 2026
  • Visits by Japanese leaders frequently draw criticism from China and South Korea, which see them as a sign of insufficient remorse for Japan’s wartime aggression.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 14 Aug. 2026
Definition of remorse
Noun
  • Four suspects pleaded guilty, including mastermind David Voss, and Benji admitted guilt and had his case administered through a First Nations restorative justice program, while charges against two were dropped, CityNews notes.
    — Brian Boucher, ARTnews.com, 21 Aug. 2026
  • Paxton did not have to admit guilt, but was required to pay $300,000 in restitution and complete community service.
    — Benjamin Siegel, ABC News, 19 Aug. 2026
Definition of guilt
Noun
  • Upon reflection, Alter said his only regret was not warning players in advance.
    — Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 25 Aug. 2026
  • For Arnett, though, greater than the fear of starting over was the regret of not pursuing the opportunity.
    — Judith Garrison, AJC.com, 25 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 28 Aug. 2026.

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