Pen"i*tence (?), n. [F. p'enitence, L. paenitentia. See Penitent, and cf. Penance.]

The quality or condition of being penitent; the disposition of a penitent; sorrow for sins or faults; repentance; contrition.

"Penitence of his old guilt."

Chaucer.

Death is deferred, and penitenance has room To mitigate, if not reverse, the doom. Dryden.

Syn. -- Repentance; contrition; compunction.

 

© Webster 1913.

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