Pen`i*ten"tial (?), a. [Cf. F. pénitentiel.] Of or pertaining to penitence, or to penance; expressing penitence; of the nature of penance; as, the penitential book; penitential tears. "Penitential stripes." Cowper.

Guilt that all the penitential fires of hereafter can not cleanse.

Pen`i*ten"tial, n. (R. C. Ch.) A book formerly used by priests hearing confessions, containing rules for the imposition of penances; -- called also penitential book.