punishment
nouncommon in dialogue
- //ˈpʌnɪʃmənt//
- /[ˈpʰʌnɪʃmənt] ~ [ˈpʰʌnɪʃmn̩t]/
The act (action) or process of punishing, imposing and/or applying a sanction, typically by an authority or a person in authority (for example: a parent or teacher), especially when disappointed or dissatisfied with the behavior or actions of a child, student, or someone else being looked after.
noun
- 1
The act (action) or process of punishing, imposing and/or applying a sanction, typically by an authority or a person in authority (for example: a parent or teacher), especially when disappointed or dissatisfied with the behavior or actions of a child, student, or someone else being looked after.
The naughty children were given a punishment by their teachers.
- 2
A penalty to punish wrongdoing, especially for crime.
a light punishment
a harsh punishment
But officials here maintain that their methods do make a difference, and they follow it up with post-release programs. The aim of Bastoy is not to punish or seek revenge, Nilsen said. The only punishment is to take away the prisoner’s right to be a free member of society.
- 3
A suffering by pain or loss imposed as retribution.
- 4
figurativeAny harsh treatment or experience; rough handling.
a vehicle that can take a lot of punishment
Etymology
From Middle English punishement, from Old French punissement, from punir (“to punish”). Equivalent to punish + -ment. Displaced native Old English wīte.
Forms
- plural
- punishments
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