Definitions

1. adjective

feeling or expressing regret or remorse for a wrong committed

“The penitent sinner begged for forgiveness at the altar.”

2. noun

a person who feels or expresses regret or remorse for a wrong committed

“The penitent stood before the judge, weeping for her past mistakes.”

3. verb

to feel or express regret or remorse for a wrong committed

“The politician tried to penitent for his role in the scandal.”