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.

Etymology

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

Common Phrases and Expressions

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.

Related Words

admission
The act of admitting something.
reveal
To make known or disclose.
acknowledge
To accept or admit the existence or truth of something.

Slang Meanings

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.