Pronunciations (2)
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/ˈʃɹaɪv/
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ˈʃɹaɪv
Verb
To hear or receive a confession (of sins etc.).
Usage- Intransitive
- Transitive
- Examples
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If he have the condition of a saint and the complexion of a devil, I had rather he should shrive me than wive me.
Doubtless he shrives this woman, […] / Else ne'er could he so long protract his speech.
To free from guilt, to absolve.
Usage- Transitive
- Examples
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I will not madly deem that power Of Earth may shrive me of the sin Unearthly pride hath revell’d in— […]
More examples (1)
My sins as scarlet are; let me go hence, / And in some cloister's school of penitence, / Across those stones, that pave the way to heaven, / Walk barefoot, till my guilty soul is shriven!
To prescribe penance or absolution.
Usage- Transitive
To confess, and receive absolution.
Usage- Intransitive
- Reflexive
- Examples
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c. 1798-1845, unknown author, The Croppy Boy 'Twas a good thought, boy, to come here and shrive.
Verb
grant remission of a sin to
- Synonyms
- Broader terms
- Examples
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The priest absolved him and told him to say ten Hail Marys