contriteness

/kənˈtraɪtnəs/
noun
  1. The state or quality of feeling sincere regret or guilt for something wrong one has done.
    • The judge noted the defendant's contriteness and gave a lighter sentence.
    • Her contriteness was obvious as she handed back the money she had taken.
    • He showed genuine contriteness by writing a letter of apology to everyone affected.
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