Penal

/ˈpiː.nəl/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Relating to, or prescribing punishment, especially the punishment of crime.

The penal code outlines the different types of punishments for various offenses.

Of or relating to the punishment of offenders under the legal system.

The penal system aims to rehabilitate rather than just punish offenders.

Pertaining to the legal code that defines crimes and punishments.

He studied penal law to better understand the implications of crime in society.

Involving a penalty or punishment.

The team faced a penal initiative for violating the league's rules.

Characterized by severe punishment or retribution.

The nation's penal policies have come under scrutiny for their harshness.

From Latin 'poenalis', from 'poena' meaning 'penalty, punishment'.

penal system

The legal system concerning the punishment of crime.

penal colony

A settlement used to isolate prisoners from the general population.

punishment

The infliction of a penalty as retribution for an offense.

correctional

Relating to the punishment, rehabilitation, and supervision of those convicted of crimes.

Penal as in jail or prison-related slang.

He'll be doing time in the pen.

Referring to the penal system in a derogatory sense.

That judge is part of the penal machine.