noun
- acts of self-punishment or devotion performed to show repentance for sins or wrongdoing
Usage: religious context; plural form
Examples
- The priest assigned several penances after hearing her confession.
- He performed daily penances to atone for his past mistakes.
- Medieval pilgrims undertook long journeys as penances for their sins.
- The monk’s penances included fasting and extended prayer.
- She viewed her volunteer work as one of her penances.
- The court ordered community service as part of his legal penances.