compunction

Definition from Wiktionary, a free dictionary

Contents 1 English 1.1 Etymology 1.2 Pronunciation 1.3 Noun 1.3.1 Quotations 1.3.2 Synonyms 1.3.3 Translations 1.4 See also

[edit] English

[edit] Etymology

From Middle English, from Old French, derived from Late Latin, compunctionem (a pricking), from Latin compunctus, the past participle of compungere (to severely prick), from com- + pungere (to prick).

[edit] Pronunciation

• Rhymes: -ʌŋkʃən

[edit] Noun

compunction (plural compunctions)

1. a pricking of conscience, a slight regret

   He pulled the trigger without compunction.

[edit] Quotations

• 1897: I felt no compunction in doing so, for under the circumstances I felt that I should protect myself in every way I could. — Dracula, Bram Stoker

[edit] Synonyms

• regret, remorse, qualm
• See also Wikisaurus:remorse

[edit] Translations

[edit] See also

• contrition
• penitence, penance
• guilt