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Definition of reformatory

reformatory

/rɪˈfɔːrmətɔːri/
re · form · a · to · ry
Plural:reformatories
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reformatory Lexical Profile

reformatory Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A penal institution to which young or first-time offenders are sent for training, education, and social rehabilitation rather than conventional imprisonment.

Example

"In the nineteenth century, the state established a new reformatory to house and educate delinquent youths."

Synonyms
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• adjective

1

Serving, tending, or intended to bring about reform, correction, or rehabilitation.

Example

"The judge favored reformatory measures over harsh punitive sentences for first-time juvenile offenders."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for reformatory

• Nearby Words

reformat
reformation
reformative
reformatory
reformer
reformist
reformulate

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 16th century as an adjective from the verb 'reform' plus the suffix '-atory' (modeled on Medieval Latin reformatorius). The noun sense referring to a correctional institution for young offenders emerged in the mid-19th century during prison reform movements.

Cite this Entry

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