Contrite: meaning, pronunciation and examples
Contrite adjective. Sincerely sorry for having done wrong.
How to say it
kun-TRYT/kənˈtraɪt/
2 syllables, stressed on the second (TRYT).
Contrite in a sentence
A contrite note under the door explained how the vase had met its end.
The chief executive looked suitably contrite as he faced the cameras.
Similar and opposite
Similar:
- remorseful
- penitent
- apologetic
- repentant
Opposite:
- unrepentant
- defiant
Where contrite comes from
From Latin contritus, ground down or crushed, from conterere.
Test yourself
Which word fills the gap?
The chief executive looked suitably _____ as he faced the cameras.
- lethargic
- contrite
- ambivalent
Show the answer
contrite: The chief executive looked suitably contrite as he faced the cameras.