Confess

/kənˈfɛs/

Meaning & Definition

verb

To admit that one has committed a crime or is at fault in some way.

After hours of questioning, the suspect finally decided to confess to the robbery.

To make something known, usually something that one has been keeping secret.

She chose to confess her feelings to him, hoping he felt the same way.

To acknowledge or disclose personal sins or shortcomings, often in a religious context.

He went to church to confess his sins to the priest.

Middle English 'confessen', from Latin 'confessare', from 'com-' (altogether) + 'fateri' (to admit, reveal).

confess to a crime

To admit to committing a criminal act.

confess one's love

To express romantic feelings to someone.

confess sins

To admit wrongdoings in a religious context.

admission

The act of admitting something.

reveal

To make known or disclose.

acknowledge

To accept or admit the existence or truth of something.

Spill the tea

I need you to confess and spill the tea about what happened at the party.

Come clean

It's time to confess and come clean about your involvement in the prank.