Category:Penitential

Pen`i*ten"tial, a. Etym: [cf. F. pénitentiel.]

Defn: of or pertaining to penitence, or to penance; expressing Penitence; of the nature of penance; as, the penitential book; Penitential tears. "penitential stripes." Cowper. Guilt that all the penitential fires of hereafter can not cleanse. Sir w. Scott.

Penitential Pen`i*ten"tial, n. (r. C. Ch.)

Defn: a book formerly used by priests hearing confessions, containing Rules for the imposition of penances; -- called also penitential Book.