shrive

To hear or receive a confession (of sins etc.).

If he have the condition of a saint and the complexion of a devil, I had rather he should shrive me than wive me.

Doubtless he shrives this woman, […] / Else ne'er could he so long protract his speech.

To free from guilt, to absolve.

I will not madly deem that power Of Earth may shrive me of the sin Unearthly pride hath revell’d in— […]

My sins as scarlet are; let me go hence, / And in some cloister's school of penitence, / Across those stones, that pave the way to heaven, / Walk barefoot, till my guilty soul is shriven!

To prescribe penance or absolution.

To confess, and receive absolution.

c. 1798-1845, unknown author, The Croppy Boy 'Twas a good thought, boy, to come here and shrive.

A surname.