Shrive \Shrive\, v. t. [imp. {Shrived}or {Shrove}; p. p. {Shriven}or {Shrived}; p. pr. & vb. n. {Shriving}.] [OE. shriven, schriven, AS. scr[=i]van to shrive, to impose penance or punishment; akin to OFries. skr[=i]va to impose punishment; cf. OS. biskr[=i]ban to be troubled. Cf. {Shrift}, {Shrovetide}.] 1. To hear or receive the confession of; to administer confession and absolution to; -- said of a priest as the agent.
That they should shrive their parishioners. --Piers Plowman.
Doubtless he shrives this woman, . . . Else ne'er could he so long protract his speech. --Shak.
Till my guilty soul be shriven. --Longfellow.
2. To confess, and receive absolution; -- used reflexively.
Get you to the church and shrive yourself. --Beau. & Fl.