Definitions

1. noun

the state of being sorry or regretful for something you have done

“The prisoner showed signs of genuine penitency during his trial.”

2. noun

the quality of being remorseful or repentant for a past action

“She felt a deep sense of penitency for hurting her friend’s feelings.”

3. noun

a feeling of regret or guilt, especially about something that happened in the past

“The couple experienced a long period of penitency after their argument.”