Penitent
Adjective
Definition: Feeling or showing regret for wrongdoing or sins; remorseful.
Synonyms: Remorseful, Regretful, Sorry, Contrite
Antonyms: Unrepentant, Defiant, Impenitent
- The penitent criminal pleaded for forgiveness in court.
- She approached the priest with a penitent heart, seeking absolution.
- Imagine a person holding a pen and writing down all their regrets, feeling penitent.
Etymology:
The word "penitent" comes from the Latin word "poenitens," which means repenting or regretting. It evolved from the Latin verb "poenitere" meaning 'to repent'.
Historical Usage:The term has been used in various religious and moral contexts throughout history, such as penitent individuals seeking forgiveness or participating in acts of penance to show remorse for their actions.
Related Idioms:
"A penitent heart"
Explanation:Refers to the state of feeling remorseful or regretful for one's actions, often associated with seeking forgiveness or repentance.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "penitent" with "repentant."
Explanation:While the two words are closely related and often used synonymously, "penitent" specifically refers to showing or feeling regret for wrongdoing, while "repentant" carries a broader meaning of changing one's behavior or turning away from sin.