Definify.com

Webster 1913 Edition

Adj.

[Cf. F.

pénitentiel

Of or pertaining to penitence, or to penance; expressing penitence; of the nature of penance;

as, the

penitential

book;

penitential

tears.

“Penitential stripes.”

Cowper.

Guilt that all the

penitential

fires of hereafter can not cleanse.

Sir W. Scott.

Noun.

(R. C. Ch.)

A book formerly used by priests hearing confessions, containing rules for the imposition of penances; – called also

penitential book

Adj.

Proceeding from or expressing penitence or contrition of heart; as penitential sorrow or tears.

Noun.

Among the Romanists, a book containing the rules which relate to penance and the reconciliation of penitents.