Compunctive

/kəmˈpʌŋktɪv/ adjective

Definition

Tending to cause or characterized by compunction; relating to remorse or guilt (archaic/rare).

Etymology

From 'compunct' (archaic verb) + suffix '-ive' (tending to, characterized by). This adjective form is particularly archaic, appearing mainly in older theological writings.

Kelly Says

This word exemplifies how English creates parallel forms—we have 'compunction,' 'compunctious,' and 'compunctive,' each subtly different, though most speakers today would simply use 'guilty' or 'remorseful' instead.

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