contrite
sincerely remorseful
Roots
- com-: with, together, complete, or intensified
- trit / ter: rub, grind, wear down, or make worn
Other words with the trit / ter root
- trite: stale from overuse
Contrite means ground down in spirit by guilt: the pride has been rubbed away.
His contrite apology named the harm without asking for sympathy.
Contrite is stronger than sorry. The image is inward pressure: guilt has worn down denial, defensiveness, or pride until remorse is visible.