1. the state of feeling or showing sorrow and regret for having done wrong; repentance

Examples

• She showed genuine penitence for her harsh words.
• His penitence was evident in his tearful apology.
• The criminal expressed deep penitence during sentencing.
• After the argument, he felt overwhelming penitence.
• Her penitence led her to make amends with her sister.
• The priest spoke about the importance of true penitence.
• His lack of penitence surprised everyone in the courtroom.