View synonyms for

penalty

[ pen-l-tee ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

plural penalties.

a punishment imposed or incurred for a violation of law or rule.
a loss, forfeiture, suffering, or the like, to which one subjects oneself by nonfulfillment of some obligation.
something that is forfeited, as a sum of money.
a disadvantage imposed upon one of the competitors or upon one side for infraction of the rules of a game, sport, etc.
consequence or disadvantage attached to any action, condition, etc.

penalty

/ ˈ��ɛ��ə��ɪ /

a legal or official punishment, such as a term of imprisonment
some other form of punishment, such as a fine or forfeit for not fulfilling a contract
loss, suffering, or other unfortunate result of one's own action, error, etc
sport games a handicap awarded against a player or team for illegal play, such as a free shot at goal by the opposing team, loss of points, etc

Discover More

Origin of penalty¹

1505–15; ≪ Medieval Latin ��Ǳ��. See penal, -ty ²

Discover More

Origin of penalty¹

C16: from Medieval Latin ��Ǳ�� penalty; see penal

Discover More

Examples have not been reviewed.

That goal came seven seconds after the Kings killed off a tripping penalty to Drew Doughty.

From

State law also carries stronger felony penalties for sex trafficking a minor under age 18.

From

“We are tired of abusers getting slapped on the wrist. Animal cruelty needs to be taken more seriously, with harsher penalties.”

From

Studies show that when women signal ambition, assertiveness, or dominance, it can result in workplace penalties.

From

Prosecutors have not determined whether they will seek the death penalty in the case.

From

Browse