repent
4 synonyms for repent, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To feel deep regret for something wrong you have done, often wanting to change.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use repent
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
repent of a sin
repent your ways
Often used in a religious or moral sense, though it can apply to any regretted action.
Etymology
From Old French repentir, from Vulgar Latin repaenitire, ultimately from Latin paenitere, "to cause regret."
Full origin of repent →Frequently asked questions
What does “repent” mean?
The word “repent” means to feel deep regret for something wrong you have done, often wanting to change. In plain terms, to feel genuine sorrow for wrongdoing, often with a wish to make things right.
How do you pronounce “repent”?
“Repent” is pronounced rih-PEHNT (/ɹɪˈpɛnt/ in IPA).
How do you use “repent” in a sentence?
Here is “repent” used in a sentence: “He repented of his youthful mistakes later in life.”
What is another word for “repent”?
Words with a similar meaning to “repent” include afterthink, regret and rue.
What part of speech is “repent”?
“Repent” is a verb.
Where does the word “repent” come from?
The word “repent” comes from Vulgar Latin. From Old French repentir, from Vulgar Latin repaenitire, ultimately from Latin paenitere, "to cause regret.".
Is “repent” a common word?
“Repent” is an uncommon word in modern English.
