Final answer:
The word 'contrite' refers to feeling remorseful or penitent. It signifies deep regret and a desire to make amends for wrongdoing, which is crucial for forgiveness in many religious and moral contexts.
Step-by-step explanation:
The word contrite means feeling or expressing remorse or penitence; affected by guilt. In the context of the options provided, the main answer for the definition of contrite is remorseful. When someone is contrite, they have a deep sense of regret and sorrow for something wrong they have done, showing a desire for atonement or reformation of behavior.
From historical perspectives such as those found in religious texts, like in the reference to buying souls out of purgatory (point number 35), being contrite is considered an essential state for forgiveness and redemption. This sense of contrition is a reflection of one's conscience and portrays an attitude that is deeply apologetic and not just superficially regretful.
Contrition is not to be confused with being doubtful or showing a lack of confidence, as the emotion here relates to guilt and moral responsibility rather than uncertainty.