Definitions for: Contrition


[n] sorrow for sin arising from fear of damnation



Webster (1913) Definition: Con*tri"tion, n. [F. contrition, L. contritio.]
1. The act of grinding or ribbing to powder; attrition;
friction; rubbing. [Obs.]

The breaking of their parts into less parts by
contrition. --Sir I.
Newton.

2. The state of being contrite; deep sorrow and repentance
for sin, because sin is displeasing to God; humble
penitence; through repentance.

My future days shall be one whole contrition.
--Dryden.

Syn: repentance; penitence; humiliation; compunction;
self-reproach; remorse.

Usage: Contrition, Attrition, repentance. -- Contrition
is deep sorrow and self-condemnation, with through
repetance for sin because it is displeasing to God,
and implies a feeling of love toward God. Attrition is
sorrow for sin, or imperfect repentance produced by
fear of punishment or a sense of the baseness of sin.
Repentance is a penitent renunciation of, and turning
from, sin; thorough repentance produces a new life.
Repentance is often used as synonymous with
contrition. See Compunction.

Synonyms: attrition, contriteness

See Also: regret, ruefulness, sorrow

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