remorse Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a feeling of deep regret (usually for some misdeed)
    compunction; self-reproach.

WordNet

Re*morse" noun
Etymology
OE. remors, OF. remors,F. remords, LL. remorsus, fr. L. remordere, remorsum, to bite again or back, to torment; pref. re- re- + mordere to bite. See Morsel.
Definitions
  1. The anguish, like gnawing pain, excited by a sense of guilt; compunction of conscience for a crime committed, or for the sins of one's past life. "Nero will be tainted with remorse." Shak.
  2. Sympathetic sorrow; pity; compassion.
    Curse on the unpardoning prince, whom tears can draw To no remorse. Dryden.
    But evermore it seem'd an easier thing At once without remorse to strike her dead. Tennyson.
    Syn. -- Compunction; regret; anguish; grief; compassion. See Compunction.

Webster 1913