Shrive \Shrive\, v. t. [imp. Shrivedor Shrove; p. p.
   Shrivenor Shrived; p. pr. & vb. n. Shriving.] [OE.
   shriven, schriven, AS. scr[imac]van to shrive, to impose
   penance or punishment; akin to OFries. skr[imac]va to impose
   punishment; cf. OS. biskr[imac]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.
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            That they should shrive their parishioners. --Piers
                                                  Plowman.
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            Doubtless he shrives this woman, . . .
            Else ne'er could he so long protract his speech.
                                                  --Shak.
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            Till my guilty soul be shriven.       --Longfellow.
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   2. To confess, and receive absolution; -- used reflexively.
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            Get you to the church and shrive yourself. --Beau. &
                                                  Fl.
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