* Penitent: This word directly relates to the concept of repentance and refers to someone who is remorseful for their actions.
* Penitence: This is a noun meaning "the state of being penitent" or "deep regret for wrongdoing."
* Penance: This word refers to an act of self-punishment or atonement for sins.
* Penitential: This adjective describes something related to penance or repentance.
* Penitentiary: Originally, a penitentiary was a place of confinement for religious penance. Over time, it evolved to refer to a prison for criminals. This evolution reflects the idea that punishment could be a form of atonement or "penance" for wrongdoing.
Therefore, understanding the word "penitentiary" requires recognizing its connection to the concept of repentance and its historical association with religious practice.