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Definition of punishment

punishment

/ˈpʌn.ɪʃ.mənt/
pun · ish · ment
Adverb:punitively
•
Plural:punishments
•
Adjective:punitive
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punishment Lexical Profile

punishment Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The infliction or imposition of a penalty as retribution for an offense or wrongdoing.

Example

"The school board decided that community service was an appropriate punishment for vandalizing the hallway."

2

Rough treatment or heavy physical wear and tear suffered by a person or object.

Example

"The hiking boots took a lot of punishment on the rocky mountain trails but remained completely intact."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for punishment

• Nearby Words

punisher
punishing
punishingly
punishment
punitive
punitively
punjabi

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 14th century from Old French 'punissement', derived from the verb 'punir' ('to punish'), which traces back to Latin 'punire' and 'poena' ('penalty'), ultimately from Ancient Greek 'poine' ('blood-money, fine, or retribution').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Punishment. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/punishment
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