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Feeling or showing sorrow and regret for having done wrong; repentant.
synonyms:remorsefulcontrite
The word 'penitent' comes from the Latin 'paenitens', meaning 'repenting' or 'feeling regret'. It has been used in English since the Middle Ages, primarily in religious contexts to describe those who seek forgiveness for their sins.
This word is often found in religious or moral discussions, and while it is not used in everyday conversation, it can be applicable in literary contexts or discussions about ethics.
While 'penitent' is not a common term in daily conversation, it appears in religious, philosophical, or literary discussions, making it familiar to those in those fields.
After realizing the impact of his actions, he felt penitent and sought to make amends.
The penitent thief returned to the scene of the crime to apologize and return what he had stolen.
In the church, the penitent were encouraged to confess their sins and seek forgiveness from God.
The word 'penitent' carries a weighty sense of remorse and reflection. Emerging from the Latin word 'paenitens', it reminds us of the human capacity for regret and the desire to make things right. Historically, the term has been tied to religious practices, where individuals express sorrow for their transgressions. While it may not pop up in everyday chit-chat, 'penitent' provides a rich vocabulary for discussions about morality and redemption.