as in penitent
Related Words
Relevance
Dissimilar Words
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 penitential
During the 8th to 10th centuries, this practice fell by the wayside and the penitential season of Lent started being marked with ashes placed on the heads of the entire congregation.
—
Chris Sims, IndyStar, 19 Apr. 2025
Geometric wrought-iron gates and latticed concrete walls pattern the scenes with a penitential feel.
—Namwali Serpell, The New Yorker, 25 Mar. 2025
In the 4th century, these festivals were adapted by Christians and incorporated into the liturgical calendar as a period of indulgence before the penitential observance of Lent.
—Brandi D. Addison, Austin American Statesman, 4 Mar. 2025
Inclement weather, a lack of footwear, and food and sleep deprivation all contribute to pilgrims’ immersion in the penitential suffering of purgatory.
—Lanta Davis and Vince Reighard, Smithsonian Magazine, 15 Mar. 2024
See All Example Sentences for penitential
Chris Sims, IndyStar, 19 Apr. 2025
Geometric wrought-iron gates and latticed concrete walls pattern the scenes with a penitential feel.
—Namwali Serpell, The New Yorker, 25 Mar. 2025
In the 4th century, these festivals were adapted by Christians and incorporated into the liturgical calendar as a period of indulgence before the penitential observance of Lent.
—Brandi D. Addison, Austin American Statesman, 4 Mar. 2025
Inclement weather, a lack of footwear, and food and sleep deprivation all contribute to pilgrims’ immersion in the penitential suffering of purgatory.
—Lanta Davis and Vince Reighard, Smithsonian Magazine, 15 Mar. 2024
See All Example Sentences for penitential
Recent Examples of Synonyms for penitential
Adjective
-
When in the presence of God, one is meant to assume a penitent air.—
Literary Hub,
Literary Hub,
20 June 2025
-
For his part, the boy is quiet and seems penitent, making the cell a calming refuge for Dean within an institution unofficially ruled by a cutthroat mini mob boss, Freddie (Ishay Lalosh).—
Judy Berman,
Time,
2 May 2025
Adjective
-
During training, Lozano’s Instagram account posted an apologetic message in English.—
Mark Zeigler,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
27 Oct. 2025
-
When Joanne and Morgan finally confront Abby about the American Girl Doll incident, the latter is apologetic.—
Fran Hoepfner,
Vulture,
24 Oct. 2025
Adjective
-
Johnson wrote in a letter in the filing to the Illinois review board that Hoover is repentant and has the potential and the desire to live the rest of his life as a force for good in his community.—
Beatrice Peterson,
ABC News,
22 Oct. 2025
-
Perry had been reluctant to engage with recovery groups in the past, which are often structured around repentant confessions.—
Katy Golvala,
Hartford Courant,
4 Aug. 2025
Adjective
-
This and that ▪ Dolphins rookie running back Ollie Gordon II was contrite about lashing out at running backs coach Eric Studesville in a heated exchange after Gordon was called for a tripping penalty against Baltimore.—
Barry Jackson,
Miami Herald,
7 Nov. 2025
-
That's why Gausman was contrite despite a mostly fantastic effort.—
Jackson Roberts,
MSNBC Newsweek,
26 Oct. 2025
Adjective
-
During her sentencing, Javice appeared remorseful, according to several reports.—
Sydney Lake,
Fortune,
29 Sep. 2025
-
While the lyrics seem remorseful, Cardi’s only regrets are for him.—
Jason P. Frank,
Vulture,
18 Sep. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Penitential.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/penitential. Accessed 13 Nov. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share