How to Pronounce Penance

To pronounce "penance", say PEN-anc-e — 3 syllables, IPA /ˈpɛn.əns/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

penance

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Accent

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3

Syllables

7

Letters

/ˈpɛn.əns/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “penance”

"penance" has 3 syllables: pen-anc-e.

What does penance mean?

noun

  1. A voluntary self-imposed punishment for a sinful act or wrongdoing. It may be intended to serve as reparation for the act.
  2. A sacrament in some Christian churches.

verb

  1. To impose penance; to punish.

Synonyms

atonementpenitence

Related words

repentancepenitenceself-abasementself-mortificationpunishmentretributionchastisementcontrition

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "penance"?▾

"Penance" has 3 syllables: pen · anc · e.

What is the IPA transcription of "penance"?▾

The IPA transcription of "penance" is /ˈpɛn.əns/.

What does "penance" mean?▾

Penance: A voluntary self-imposed punishment for a sinful act or wrongdoing. It may be intended to serve as reparation for the act.

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