释义 |
com·punc·tion \kəmˈpəŋ(k)shən\ noun (-s) Etymology: Middle English compunctioun, from Middle French componction, from Late Latin compunction-, compunctio, from Latin compunctus (past participle of compungere to prick hard, sting from com- + pungere to prick, sting) + -ion-, -io -ion — more at pungent 1. a. : anxiety of spirit arising from consciousness of sin : deep unease caused by knowledge of guilt < compunctions of conscience > b. : normal human regret, pity, or anxiety : remorse < he showed no compunction in planning devilish engines of military destruction — Havelock Ellis > c. : a twinge of uneasiness : scruple < cheating without compunction > 2. archaic : compassionate sorrow : pity Synonyms: see penitence, scruple |