Meaning & Definition of word "Punishment"
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Punishment
/ˈpʌnɪʃmənt/
noun:
- 1. The infliction of a penalty as retribution for an offense.
- Example: The punishment for theft can range from community service to imprisonment.
- 2. Severe consequences or suffering imposed as a correction for misbehavior.
- Example: The teacher gave a harsh punishment to the student who repeatedly disrupted the class.
- 3. A penalty or adverse consequence applied for breaking a rule or law.
- Example: In ancient times, the punishment for treason was often death.
Etymology
Middle English: from Old French punissement, from the verb punir, from Latin punire.
Common Phrases and Expressions
spare the rod, spoil the child:
A phrase suggesting that without punishment or correction, a child may grow up to be undisciplined.
an eye for an eye:
A principle that punishment should correspond in degree and kind to the offense.
pay the price:
To suffer consequences for one's actions.
bring to justice:
To apprehend and punish someone for their wrongdoings.
face the music:
To confront the consequences of one's actions.
Related Words
rehabilitation:
The process of restoring someone to health or normal life through training and therapy after imprisonment, addiction, or illness.
consequence:
A result or effect of an action or condition, particularly in reference to a punishment.
retribution:
Punishment that is considered to be morally right and fully deserved.
Slang Meanings of punishment
Meaning: Old school punishment
Example Sentence: Getting grounded for a month was like old school punishment.
Meaning: Time out
Example Sentence: After acting up, he had to sit in time out as punishment.