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Definition of punitively

punitively

/ˈpjuːnɪtɪvli/
pu · ni · tive · ly
Adjective:punitive
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punitively Lexical Profile

punitively Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a manner intended to inflict punishment or serve as a penalty.

Example

"The regulatory board decided to act punitively against corporations that repeatedly violated environmental standards."

2

To a severely high, harsh, or burdensome degree, especially regarding costs, taxes, or conditions.

Example

"Small businesses complained that the new import tariffs were punitively high."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

punishingly
punishment
punitive
punitively
punjabi
punk
punker

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed from the adjective punitive and the adverbial suffix -ly; punitive derives from Medieval Latin punitivus, from the past participle of Latin punire ('to punish'), which is rooted in poena ('penalty' or 'punishment').

Cite this Entry

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