VocabDictionary

remorseful

/rɪˈmɔːrs.fəl/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Feeling or expressing deep regret or sorrow for having done something wrong.

Example Sentences:
  • The remorseful thief returned the stolen items and issued a public apology.
  • She felt truly remorseful for the harsh words she had spoken in the heat of the moment.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “remorseful”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Middle English 'remors', which comes from the Old French 'remors', ultimately from the Late Latin 'remorsus', meaning 'to bite again'. The imagery suggests that guilt 'bites' at the conscience repeatedly.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 're-mors' as 're-morsel'—you are chewing over your bad actions again and again like a bitter piece of food.

Frequently Asked Questions About “remorseful

1. What is the meaning of “remorseful” in English?

In English, remorseful (adjective) is defined as: “Feeling or expressing deep regret or sorrow for having done something wrong.”.

2. How do you use “remorseful” in a sentence?

The remorseful thief returned the stolen items and issued a public apology.

3. What are English synonyms of “remorseful”?

Common synonyms include:penitent,contrite,apologetic,regretful,rueful

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “remorseful”?

Derived from the Middle English 'remors', which comes from the Old French 'remors', ultimately from the Late Latin 'remorsus', meaning 'to bite again'. The imagery suggests that guilt 'bites' at the conscience repeatedly.