Contrition (noun)

1. A feeling of remorse or repentance for one's sins or misdeeds.
2. The state of being contrite; the act of being sorry for one's wrongdoings.
3. The state of being penitent; the act of seeking forgiveness.

Origin:

From the latin contritionem, from contritus meaning "crushed" or "ground down".

Examples:

1. The priest heard the man's confession and gave him absolution for his contrition.
2. Her contrition was genuine and she made amends for her mistake.
3. The contrition of the criminal was taken into consideration during sentencing.
4. He expressed contrition for his actions and asked for forgiveness.
5. The contrition of the guilty party led to the peaceful resolution of the dispute.