English vocabulary · C1
Contrite
/kənˈtraɪt/ · adj.
It means feeling very sorry and ashamed for something wrong you did.
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Example sentences
- He stood contrite, head down, saying nothing.
- She sent a contrite message after the fight.
Word origin and roots
from Latin
- con — completely (from Latin)
- trite — worn down (from Latin)
Synonyms and nuances
- sorry (expressing basic regret or apology)
- remorseful (guilt lingers after causing harm)
- apologetic (actively seeking forgiveness)
Words with the same root
terere — wear down
- trite — so overused it has lost all meaning or impact
- attrition — the gradual process of wearing something or someone down over time
- detritus — broken-down fragments left behind after wearing away
Lesson notes
Contrite. It means feeling very sorry and ashamed for something wrong you did. You wish you could take it back.
Similar words are sorry, remorseful, and apologetic. Use contrite when shame runs very deep.
He stood contrite, head down, saying nothing. She sent a contrite message after the fight.
From Latin. Con means completely. Trite means worn down. Contrite means worn down completely by guilt.