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

In my view, there’s no contradiction because wearing ashes in public, unlike righteous acts of giving alms, fasting and praying in public, is a sign that we are sinners and in need of repentance.

From The Wall Street Journal

The day marks the beginning of Lent, the most solemn season of repentance in the ecclesiastical year.

From The Wall Street Journal

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

Related Words

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