penitential

adjective

pen·​i·​ten·​tial ˌpe-nə-ˈten(t)-shəl How to pronounce penitential (audio)
Synonyms of penitentialnext
: of or relating to penitence or penance
penitentially
ˌpe-nə-ˈten(t)-sh(ə-)lē How to pronounce penitential (audio)
adverb

Examples of penitential in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
When this occurs, public worship is suspended until a penitential rite is performed to restore the sanctity of the church. — Stepheny Price, FOXNews.com, 12 Oct. 2025 In contrast to the penitential nature of Lent, Easter is a festive period that lasts for fifty days, culminating with the feast of Pentecost. — Nadia Cantú, AZCentral.com, 3 Feb. 2026 During the 8th to 10th centuries, this practice fell by the wayside and the penitential season of Lent started being marked with ashes placed on the heads of the entire congregation. — Chris Sims, Louisville Courier Journal, 18 Feb. 2026 During the 8th to 10th centuries, this practice fell by the wayside and the penitential season of Lent started being marked with ashes placed on the heads of the entire congregation. — Chris Sims, IndyStar, 13 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for penitential

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of penitential was before the 12th century

Rhymes for penitential

See All Rhymes for penitential

Browse Nearby Words

penitent-form
penitential
penitential psalm
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Cite this Entry

“Penitential.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/penitential. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

penitential

adjective
pen·​i·​ten·​tial ˌpen-ə-ˈten-chəl How to pronounce penitential (audio)
: of or relating to penitence or penance
penitentially
-ˈtench-(ə-)lē How to pronounce penitential (audio)
adverb

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