Wear, put on, etc. sackcloth and ashes

phrase

To show that you are sorry for something you have done, generally in a public manner.

After the scandal, the politician was forced to wear sackcloth and ashes in a bid to retain his position.

Formal

Idiomatic

phrase

After the scandal, the politician was forced to wear sackcloth and ashes in a bid to retain his position.

Formal

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1

Pro Tip 1/3

Originates from ancient practices of mourning and penance, symbolizing extreme humility.

The CEO wore sackcloth and ashes during the press conference to show contrition for the company's mistakes.

Pro Tip 2/3

Used metaphorically in modern times to express deep regret for wrongdoings, not literal dressing.

The company had to put on sackcloth and ashes after the environmental disaster they caused.

Pro Tip 3/3

Often suggests a public or very visible display of remorse, rather than a private apology.

Following the outage, the service provider donned sackcloth and ashes in front of its users.

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.