Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Contrite \Con"trite\ (?; 277), a. [L. contritus bruised, p. p.
   of contrere to grind, bruise; con- + terere to rub, grind:
   cf. F. contrit See {Trite}.]
   1. Thoroughly bruised or broken. [Obs.]

   2. Broken down with grief and penitence; deeply sorrowful for
      sin because it is displeasing to God; humbly and
      thoroughly penitent.

            A contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.
                                                  --Ps. li. 17.

            Be penitent, and for thy fault contrite. --Milton.

   Syn: Penitent; repentant; humble; sorrowful.

Contrite \Con"trite\, n.
   A contrite person. --Hooker.

Contrite \Con"trite\, v.
   In a contrite manner.

Source : WordNet®

contrite
     adj 1: feeling or expressing pain or sorrow for sins or offenses
            [syn: {remorseful}, {rueful}, {ruthful}, {sorry}]
     2: feeling regret for a fault or offence