penitent

adjective

UK /ˈpen.ɪ.tənt/

US /ˈpen.ə.tənt/

Feeling sorry for something wrong you did.

She felt penitent after yelling at her little brother and said sorry.

SYNONYMS

sorry remorseful repentant apologetic contrite

RELATED WORDS

guilt forgiveness apology regret confession

OTHER MEANINGS

2. A person who says they are sorry for doing wrong.

The penitent asked the priest for forgiveness.

3. Showing that you feel bad about a mistake.

He gave a penitent look and promised not to lie again.

4. Willing to make up for a wrong action.

The penitent student returned the borrowed book and apologized.