Being so stupid can make you most penitent (5)
I believe the answer is:
inept
'being so' is the definition.
Both the answer and definition are adjectives. Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?
'stupid can make you most penitent' is the wordplay.
'INEPT' is hidden backwards within the letters.
However, I am not sure how this is indicated.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for inept that I've seen before include "Unskilful, awkward" , "Clumsy - silly" , "Cack-handed" , "Clumsy, out of place" , "Incompetent and ineffectual" .)