Pen`i*ten"tial (?), a. [Cf. F. p'enitentiel.]
Of or pertaining to penitence, or to penance; expressing penitence; of the nature of penance; as, the penitential book; penitential tears.
"
Penitential stripes."
Cowper.
Guilt that all the penitential fires of hereafter can not cleanse.
Sir W. Scott.
© Webster 1913.
Pen`i*ten"tial, n. R. C. Ch.
A book formerly used by priests hearing confessions, containing rules for the imposition of penances; -- called also penitential book.
© Webster 1913.