unrepentant

Imagine a mischievous child who breaks a vase, looks you straight in the eye, and doesn't apologize - they're unrepentant! It means someone doesn't feel sorry for what they've done, even if it was wrong. They might even seem proud of it. The word carries a strong sense of defiance; an unrepentant person isn't just without remorse, they actively reject the idea that they should feel bad. You'll often find "unrepentant" used to describe villains in stories or people who have done something seriously wrong and refuse to admit it. Think Captain Hook - utterly unrepentant about his piratical ways!

"Unrepentant" describes someone who shows no remorse, regret, or sorrow for their actions, even when those actions are considered wrong or harmful. It's a powerful word that goes beyond simply not apologizing; it suggests a deliberate refusal to acknowledge wrongdoing and a stubborn insistence on justifying one's behavior.

The root of the word comes from "repent," meaning to feel regret and turn away from sin. Adding "un-" negates this, creating a sense of unwavering defiance. An unrepentant criminal might refuse to admit guilt, an unrepentant politician might stand by controversial decisions, and an unrepentant artist might continue to create provocative work despite criticism.

You'll often encounter "unrepentant" in contexts involving moral failings, legal offenses, or stubborn characters. It's a word that paints a picture of someone who is resolute - even if that resolve is misguided. It suggests a deep refusal to admit fault and an unwillingness to change course.

For example: "Despite overwhelming evidence, the defendant remained unrepentant," or "She was an unrepentant gossip, delighting in spreading rumors." The word carries a weight of judgment, implying that the person should feel remorse but chooses not to. It's a strong descriptor for people who keep defending or continuing bad behavior, even when facing consequences.