repentance

noun

re·​pen·​tance ri-ˈpen-tᵊn(t)s How to pronounce repentance (audio)
Synonyms of repentance
: the action or process of repenting especially for misdeeds or moral shortcomings

Synonyms of repentance

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penitence, repentance, contrition, compunction, remorse mean regret for sin or wrongdoing.

penitence implies sad and humble realization of and regret for one's misdeeds.

absolution is dependent upon sincere penitence

repentance adds the implication of a resolve to change.

repentance accompanied by a complete change of character

contrition stresses the sorrowful regret that constitutes true penitence.

tearful expressions of contrition

compunction implies a painful sting of conscience especially for contemplated wrongdoing.

had no compunctions about taking back what is mine

remorse suggests prolonged and insistent self-reproach and mental anguish for past wrongs and especially for those whose consequences cannot be remedied.

thieves untroubled by feelings of remorse

Examples of repentance in a Sentence

preached that repentance was the first step on the path of redemption
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The charges against Gao relate to artistic works that China's authorities claim insulted revolutionary figures, including a 2009 statue called Mao’s Guilt, which shows the former leader and founder of modern China as kneeling in repentance. — ABC News, 25 Aug. 2026 The charges against Gao relate to artistic works that China’s authorities claim insulted revolutionary figures, including a 2009 statue called Mao’s Guilt, which shows the former leader and founder of modern China as kneeling in repentance. — Huizhong Wu, Los Angeles Times, 25 Aug. 2026 Barber advocated repentance for political inaction on issues such as poverty and racial discrimination and urged intersectional activism to defend democratic values. — Sofia Williams, Sacbee.com, 16 July 2026 The woman’s love and affection, as well as her genuine repentance, won his absolution of her sins. — Eric Bashor, Christian Science Monitor, 13 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for repentance

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of repentance was in the 14th century

Rhymes for repentance

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Cite this Entry

“Repentance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/repentance. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

repentance

noun
re·​pen·​tance ri-ˈpent-ᵊn(t)s How to pronounce repentance (audio)
: the action or process of repenting especially for one's sins

More from Merriam-Webster on repentance

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about repentance

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