Meaning & Definition of word "Punishment"

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.