Confession

Definition

Confession refers to the act of admitting or acknowledging a fault, wrongdoing, or sin. It is often used in both legal and religious contexts, where individuals openly declare something they have done wrong, whether a crime or a sin.

Parts of Speech

• Noun (the act of admitting a fault or wrongdoing)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kənˈfɛʃən/
• Respelling: kuhn-FESH-uhn

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kənˈfɛʃən/
• Respelling: kuhn-FESH-uhn

Etymology

The word "confession" originates from the Latin "confessio," which means "acknowledgment" or "admission." It is derived from the Latin verb "confiteri," which combines "con-" (together) and "fateri" (to admit), meaning to acknowledge something openly, especially a fault or wrongdoing.

Derivatives

• Confess (verb)
• Confessor (noun)
• Confessional (adjective)
• Self-confession (noun)
• Unconfessed (adjective)

Synonyms

• Admission
• Acknowledgment
• Disclosure

Antonyms

• Denial
• Concealment
• Refusal

Usage

The term "confession" is often used in legal settings where a person admits guilt, such as in a police confession. In religious contexts, it refers to admitting sins, typically in the presence of a priest, as part of seeking absolution. For instance, "He made a full confession to the police," or "She went to church to offer her confession."

Related Terms

• Admission: The act of acknowledging the truth of something, especially wrongdoing.
• Testimony: A formal statement, especially one made in a legal setting.
• Absolution: The formal release from guilt or sin, often in a religious context.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The act of admitting wrongdoing or a fault: Refers to an individual acknowledging guilt for a mistake, crime, or sin.
  • Example: "The suspect made a confession after hours of questioning."
• A formal statement of faith or belief: Refers to a declaration of one’s religious beliefs, particularly in Christian traditions.
  • Example: "The Nicene Creed is an important Christian confession of faith."