Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Shrift \Shrift\, n. [OE. shrift, schrift, AS. scrift, fr.
   scr[=i]fan to shrive. See {Shrive}.]
   1. The act of shriving.

            In shrift and preaching is my diligence. --Chaucer.

   2. Confession made to a priest, and the absolution consequent
      upon it. --Chaucer.

            Have you got leave to go to shrift to-day? --Shak.

            Therefore, my lord, address you to your shrift, And
            be yourself; for you must die this instant. --Rowe.

   {Shrift father}, a priest to whom confession is made.