Meaning & Definition of word "Punish"
to
Punish
/ˈpʌnɪʃ/
verb:
- 1. To impose a penalty on someone for an offense or wrongdoing.
- Example: The school decided to punish the students who were caught cheating on the exam.
- 2. To inflict pain or suffering on someone as a consequence of their actions.
- Example: The judge decided to punish the criminal with a lengthy prison sentence.
- 3. To chastise someone in order to correct their behavior.
- Example: The coach would punish players who failed to follow team rules.
- 4. To cause someone to suffer for a mistake, wrongdoing, or transgression.
- Example: Parents often punish their children to teach them about consequences.
Etymology
Middle English punische, from Old French punir, from Latin punire.
Common Phrases and Expressions
punish the guilty:
To take action against those who have committed an offense.
punish with a heavy hand:
To administer strict punishment or consequences.
Related Words
punishment:
The infliction of a penalty for an offense.
punitive:
Intended as punishment.
Slang Meanings of punish
Meaning: To get back at someone in a humorous way.
Example Sentence: I totally punished him in that debate.
Meaning: To severely confront or chastise someone.
Example Sentence: The teacher really punished that kid for being disruptive.