repentance

American  

[ri-pen-tns, -pen-tuhns] / rɪˈpɛn tns, -ˈpɛn təns /

noun

1. deep sorrow, compunction, or contrition for a past sin, wrongdoing, or the like.

   Synonyms:

   remorse, penitence, contriteness

   Antonyms:

   impenitence

2. regret for any past action.

   Synonyms:

   sorrow

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repentance British  

/ rɪˈpɛntəns /

noun

1. remorse or contrition for one's past actions or sins

2. an act or the process of being repentant; penitence

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Other Word Forms

• nonrepentance noun

Etymology

Origin of repentance

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English repentaunce, from Old French repentance; equivalent to repent ¹ + -ance

Example Sentences

The frail Jones expressed regret for his past and Lee decided to believe his repentance was sincere.

From BBC

But it is recovery, with its repentance and hope of redemption, that is the most prominent theme of “Scene.”

From The Wall Street Journal

It says this is a "recognition of the need for repentance, humility and lament".

From BBC

Full reconciliation with someone who has wronged us is conditional on his repentance, his reform and his making restitution if necessary.

From The Wall Street Journal

The man responsible for two extremely graphic videos, Wang Chaoyi, was detained for 15 days by the Chinese authorities and forced to issue a "letter of repentance".

From BBC

Related Words

• contrition
• grief
• guilt
• penitence
• regret
• remorse
• sorrow