2. One under church censure, but admitted to penance; one undergoing penance.
3. One under the direction of a confessor.
Note: Penitents is an appellation given to certain fraternities in Roman Catholic countries, distinguished by their habit, and employed in charitable acts.
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.
PENITENTIALLY
Pen`i*ten"tial*ly, adv.
Defn: In a penitential manner.
PENITENTIARY
Pen`i*ten"tia*ry, a. Etym: [Cf. F. pénitentiaire.]