Penance Meaning and Definition
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Penance
Penance
Pronunciation
/ˈpɛnsəns/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A voluntary act of self-punishment or atonement, often imposed as a form of discipline or penitence, typically as a means of making amends for past misdeeds.
Examples
- The monk performed a lifetime of penance for his sinful past.
- He undertook a difficult journey as a form of penance for his mistakes.
Synonyms
- Penitence
- Atonement
Antonyms
- Forgiveness
- Pardon
Etymology
The word “penance” originated from the Latin “paenitentia,” meaning “contrition” or “repentance.”
Usage Notes
Penance is typically used in formal or religious contexts, often referring to a specific act of self-mortification or sacrifice.
Cultural References
In Christianity, penance is a means of making amends for past sins and is often associated with the sacrament of Reconciliation.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Do penance” or “do a penance” means to suffer or endure a difficult or unpleasant experience.
Related Words or Phrases
- Penitence
- Atonement
- Biblical repentance
Collocations
- Penance and forgiveness
- Penance and atonement
Frequency of Use
Penance is a relatively rare word in modern language, typically used in formal or religious contexts.
Common Misspellings
- Penence
- Pansence