Definition

The condition of feeling sorry or remorseful for something wrong that one has done.

Example

After realizing his mistake, he expressed his contriteness to his friends.

Conversation

I saw Jake earlier, and he seemed really upset.

Yeah, I heard he’s feeling a lot of contriteness about what happened last week.

Do you think he’ll reach out to apologize?

I hope so; it would be good for him to express that feeling.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Contriteness is formed from "contritus" (meaning ground down or crushed) and the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word describes the state of being crushed or ground down in spirit, often in relation to feelings of remorse or sorrow for one's actions.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'ground down' ('contritus') in spirit, which helps you remember that contriteness refers to the state of feeling deep remorse or sorrow.

Visually Confused Words