from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Shrift \Shrift\, n. [OE. shrift, schrift, AS. scrift, fr.
scr[imac]fan to shrive. See {Shrive}.]
1. The act of shriving.
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In shrift and preaching is my diligence. --Chaucer.
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2. Confession made to a priest, and the absolution consequent
upon it. --Chaucer.
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Have you got leave to go to shrift to-day? --Shak.
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Therefore, my lord, address you to your shrift,
And be yourself; for you must die this instant.
--Rowe.
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{Shrift father}, a priest to whom confession is made.
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