adverb
- in a way that shows regret or sorrow for wrongdoing
Examples
- She penitently apologized for her harsh words.
- The child stood penitently before his teacher after breaking the vase.
- He penitently confessed his mistake to his boss.
- The defendant looked penitently at the judge during sentencing.
- She penitently returned the money she had taken.
- The student penitently admitted to cheating on the exam.