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Definitions from the Web

Penitence

Part of Speech: Noun

Sense 1: Deep regret or sorrow for a past wrongdoing

Penitence is a feeling of remorse or regret for one's actions, often accompanied by a desire to make amends or seek forgiveness.

Example Sentence: After betraying his best friend, John was filled with penitence and spent years trying to make up for his mistake.

Sense 2: Voluntary self-punishment as an expression of repentance

In some religious practices, penitence involves acts of self-discipline or self-denial to demonstrate sincere repentance.

Example Sentence: The monk engaged in extreme penitence by fasting and spending long hours in prayer to atone for his sins.

Part of Speech: Verb

Sense 1: To feel or show regret for one's wrongdoing

When used as a verb, penitence means to express remorse or contrition for an offense or wrongdoing committed.

Example Sentence: She penitently admitted her mistake and apologized to her colleague for her thoughtless comment.

Part of Speech: Adjective

Sense 1: Expressing or characterized by penitence

The adjective form of penitence describes something that displays or embodies feelings of remorse and a desire for atonement.

Example Sentence: His penitent expression and humble attitude showed that he genuinely regretted his past actions.