Penitente

[ pen-i-ten-tey, -tee ]

/ ˌpɛn ɪˈtɛn teɪ, -ti /

noun

a member of a religious order, chiefly in Spanish-American communities in New Mexico, known for their practice of self-flagellation, especially during Holy Week.

Origin of Penitente

1830–40, Americanism; < Spanish, singular of Penitentes, short for Los Hermanos Penitentes the penitent brothers

Examples from the Web for penitente

Penitente membership comprises two strata distinguishable by title and activity.
The Penitente Moradas of Abiqui|Richard E. Ahlborn
"Personalism" is revealed in the immediate and individual participation of all members in penitente activities.
The Penitente Moradas of Abiqui|Richard E. Ahlborn
Edmonson's study of 1950 has established the persistence of penitente activity in Hispano culture.
The Penitente Moradas of Abiqui|Richard E. Ahlborn
Penitente moradas share a common system of adobe construction with the religious and domestic structures of New Mexico.
The Penitente Moradas of Abiqui|Richard E. Ahlborn

"Dramatism" is an essential ingredient of penitente ceremonies such as the tinieblas.
The Penitente Moradas of Abiqui|Richard E. Ahlborn