contrition Hear it!

contrition Definition

con·tri·tion (kən tris̸h′ən)

noun

  1. remorse for having done wrong
  2. Theol. sorrow for having offended God: perfect contrition is such sorrow arising out of pure love of God

Etymology: ME contricioun < OFr contrition < LL(Ec) contritio, grief: see contrite

contrition Synonyms

contrition

n.

penitence, remorse, sorrow; see penance 1, 2, regret 1, repentance. See syn. study at repentance.

contrition Usage Examples

Converse of object

  • show: However, in order to qualify for parole the prisoner must show contrition, which involves admitting guilt.
  • feel: I would rather feel contrition than know how to define it.

Adjective modifier

  • deep: With pure prayer and deep contrition, Let us participate in the sacraments of the church.
  • little: I whizzed round the corner, then felt a mixture of anger, rage, mixed with a little contrition.
contrition Quotes

  What are we learning Frenchor thepianofor,Iwould like to know, if it is not to be sold to a man some day† We have to cringe, and manoeuvre, and grimace for a husbandöa husband who may be deaf orhavea hump if he is richöa husband that may attack you in delirium tremens to-day if he makes a devout act of contrition for it to-morrow.

—O'Brien,William