Meaning & use

metanoia

noun·Advanced

A profound transformation of one's mind or way of thinking, often a spiritual or moral change of direction.

See it in a sentence

His years in prison led to a genuine metanoia, and he devoted his life to helping others.

The novel traces the protagonist's slow metanoia from bitterness toward forgiveness.

A note on using this word

Originally a Greek term for repentance; now used more broadly for any deep personal change of heart.

Words with a similar meaning

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