confess
/kənˈfɛs/
confess
English
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Definition
To admit to the truth, particularly in the context of sins or crimes committed.
Etymology
From Middle English confessen, from Anglo-Norman confesser, from Old French confesser, from Latin confessus (Old French confés), past participle of cōnfiteor (“I confess, I admit”) from con- + fateor (“I admit”). Displaced Middle English andetten (“to confess, admit”) (from Old English andettan). Doublet of confiteor. Sense 6 is a calque of 告白 (kokuhaku).
Example Sentences
- "I confess to spray-painting all over that mural!"
- "I confess that I am a sinner."
- "I never gave it him. Send for him hither, / And let him confess a truth."
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