Shrift \Shrift\, n. [OE. shrift, schrift, AS. scrift, fr. scr[=i]fan to shrive. See Shrive.]

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 Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)