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Definition/Meaning

(noun)

Voluntary self-punishment or suffering to atone for a sin or wrongdoing.

e.g. The monk performed a penance of fasting and prayer to cleanse his soul.

(noun)

a sacramental rite practiced in Roman, Eastern, and some Anglican churches and that consists of private confession to a priest, absolution, and a penance directed by the confessor;

e.g. His penance tumbled out in a rush as if confessing his sins out loud could save him.

(noun)

something (such as a hardship or penalty) resembling an act of penance (as in compensating for an offense);

e.g. When the pound of apples tore through the bag, she took it as her penance for getting snippy with the cashier.

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Similar Words

Amends

Atonement

Expiation

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