Meaning & Definition
noun
The infliction of a penalty as retribution for an offense.
The punishment for theft can range from community service to imprisonment.
Severe consequences or suffering imposed as a correction for misbehavior.
The teacher gave a harsh punishment to the student who repeatedly disrupted the class.
A penalty or adverse consequence applied for breaking a rule or law.
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.
Slang Meanings
Old school punishment
Getting grounded for a month was like old school punishment.
Time out
After acting up, he had to sit in time out as punishment.