contrite
Translation
remorseful, penitent
Examples
She was contrite after her angry outburst.
She was contrite after her angry outburst.
He wrote a contrite letter of apology.
He wrote a contrite letter of apology.
Grammar Patterns
((to be)) contrite ((for sth.)) to be feeling or expressing remorse for a misdeed. She was contrite for her angry outburst.
Similar Words
Synonyms: remorseful, penitent, repentant; Antonyms: unrepentant, impenitent
Etymology
From Latin 'con-' (together) and 'terere' (to rub, grind). The idea is of being 'ground down' by guilt.
Memory Tips
Think of being 'crushed' by guilt. The 'trite' part sounds like something worn down.