Shrift
Pronunciation : Shrift
Part of Speech : n.
Etymology : [OE. shrift, schrift, AS. scrift, fr. scrifan to shrive. See Shrive.]
Definition : 1. The act of shriving. In shrift and preaching is my diligence. Chaucer.
2. Confession made to a priest, and the absolution consequent upon it. Chaucer. Have you got leave to go to shrift to-day Shak. Therefore, my lord, address you to your shrift, And be yourself; for you must die this instant. Rowe. Shrift father, a priest to whom confession is made.
Source : Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, 1913