contrition etymology

Etymology and Meaning of Contrition

Etymology:

  • Old French: contricion, contrit
  • Latin: contritiō, contrītus ("worn down, crushed")
  • Proto-Indo-European: *kremh- ("scratch, cut")

Meaning:

Contrition is a deep and heartfelt sorrow or remorse for one's sins or wrongdoings. It involves a sense of guilt, shame, and regret, as well as a desire to atone for one's actions. Contrition is often considered an essential element of forgiveness and reconciliation.

Origin

The word "contrition" originates from the Latin verb "contrītus," which means "worn down" or "crushed." This metaphorical usage likely refers to the emotional and spiritual anguish experienced by those who are genuinely sorry for their sins.

In Christian theology, contrition is considered a gift from God that enables individuals to recognize and repent of their wrongdoings. It is often associated with the sacrament of confession, in which believers confess their sins to a priest and seek absolution.

The concept of contrition has been explored in various religious and philosophical traditions throughout history. In Buddhism, for example, contrition is seen as a necessary step on the path to enlightenment, while in Hinduism, it is considered a form of purification and self-realization.

contrition relate terms

  • contrite

    Etymology Latin contritus past participle of conterere to rub together crush grind

  • attrition

    Etymology The word attrition is derived from the Latin word attritio which means ru

  • contrition

    Etymology and Meaning of Contrition Etymology Old French contricion contrit Latin c

  • compunction

    Etymology Latin compunctio Old French componction Middle English compuncioun Meanin

  • repentance

    Etymology The word repentance comes from the Latin word poenitentia which itself or

  • snivel

    Etymology Middle English snivelen sniveling Old English snot from the Proto Germani

  • penitentiary

    Etymology Middle English penitenciarye 14th century Late Latin poenitentiarius 6th c

  • penance

    Etymology From Old French penance from Latin paenitentia from poenitere to repent r

  • sorrow

    Etymology The word sorrow comes from the Old English word sorg which in turn derives

  • regret

    Etymology Old French regretter Late Latin regretari meaning to murmur complain Po

  • Jehovah

    Etymology The name Jehovah is an Anglicization of the Hebrew name Yahweh יהוה

  • disheveled

    Etymology Disheveled is derived from the following linguistic elements dis pre