from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Contrite \Con"trite\ (?; 277), a. [L. contritus bruised, p. p.
of contrere to grind, bruise; con- + terere to rub, grind:
cf. F. contrit See {Trite}.]
1. Thoroughly bruised or broken. [Obs.]
[1913 Webster]
2. Broken down with grief and penitence; deeply sorrowful for
sin because it is displeasing to God; humbly and
thoroughly penitent.
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A contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.
--Ps. li. 17.
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Be penitent, and for thy fault contrite. --Milton.
Syn: Penitent; repentant; humble; sorrowful.
[1913 Webster]