repent
Repent (verb) means to feel deep regret for something wrong you have done, often wanting to change. Example: “He repented of his youthful mistakes later in life.”
How to use repent
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo feel genuine sorrow for wrongdoing, often with a wish to make things right.
Often used in a religious or moral sense, though it can apply to any regretted action.
Word forms
repented past tense, repents singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He _____ of his youthful mistakes later in life.
Etymology
From Old French repentir, from Vulgar Latin repaenitire, ultimately from Latin paenitere, "to cause regret."
Synonyms
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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.