Definition of repent

< repellent

repent >

re·pent¹    (r-pnt) KEY 

VERB:
re·pent·ed, re·pent·ing, re·pents
VERB:
intr.

1. To feel remorse, contrition, or self-reproach for what one has done or failed to do; be contrite.
2. To feel such regret for past conduct as to change one's mind regarding it: repented of intemperate behavior.
3. To make a change for the better as a result of remorse or contrition for one's sins.

VERB:
tr.

1. To feel regret or self-reproach for: repent one's sins.
2. To cause to feel remorse or regret.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English repenten, from Old French repentir : re-, re- + pentir, to be sorry (from Vulgar Latin *paenitre, from Latin paenitre)

OTHER FORMS:
re·penter(Noun)