Meaning & Definition of word "Penitentiary"

Penitentiary

/ˌpɛnɪˈtɛnʃəri/

noun:

  • 1. A prison for people convicted of serious crimes.
    • Example: After his conviction, he was sentenced to five years in the state penitentiary.
  • 2. An institution intended for the rehabilitation of offenders.
    • Example: The penitentiary system aims to reduce recidivism through educational programs.
  • 3. A prison designed for long-term confinement of criminals.
    • Example: He spent the majority of his time in a high-security penitentiary.
  • 4. A facility housing inmates who have committed felonies.
    • Example: The penitentiary was overcrowded and in need of reform.
  • 5. A correctional facility for serious offenses, often with a focus on rehabilitation.
    • Example: She volunteered at the local penitentiary, helping inmates learn new skills.

Etymology

From Latin 'poenitentia', meaning 'repentance'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

penitentiary system:

The network of prisons and correctional facilities within a jurisdiction.

penitentiary sentence:

A term of imprisonment imposed by a court.

stray to the penitentiary:

To end up in prison after making poor choices.

Related Words

convict:

A person found guilty of a crime and sentenced to imprisonment.

inmate:

A person confined to an institution like a prison.

warden:

An official in charge of a prison.

Slang Meanings of penitentiary

Meaning: The pen

Example Sentence: He’s doing time in the pen for his crimes.

Meaning: The joint

Example Sentence: He was sent to the joint after he was caught robbing a store.