'Penitential' definitions:

Definition of 'penitential'

(from WordNet)
adjective
Showing or constituting penance; "penitential tears"; "wrote a penitential letter apologizing for her hasty words" [syn: penitential, penitentiary]

Definition of 'Penitential'

From: GCIDE
  • Penitential \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. [1913 Webster]

Definition of 'Penitential'

From: GCIDE
  • Penitential \Pen`i*ten"tial\, a. [Cf. F. p['e]nitentiel.] Of or pertaining to penitence, or to penance; expressing penitence; of the nature of penance; as, the penitential book; penitential tears. "Penitential stripes." --Cowper. [1913 Webster]
  • Guilt that all the penitential fires of hereafter can not cleanse. --Sir W. Scott. [1913 Webster]

Words containing 'Penitential'