hard labor

noun

1. compulsory labor imposed upon criminals in addition to imprisonment, generally not exceeding ordinary labor in severity or amount.

Word History and Origins

Origin of hard labor¹

First recorded in 1850–55

Example Sentences

Someone who appreciates hard labor and thrills to the sight of heavy machinery.

From Los Angeles Times

Mostly, their education involves learning that they are “grubs,” only suitable for hard labor and sexual predation, with the faint potential of becoming “explorers,” then “pioneers” and finally “aces.”

From Los Angeles Times

After My Lai, Calley was sentenced to life at hard labor.

From Los Angeles Times

According to the bill, violators "shall be imprisoned with or without hard labor for not less than one year nor more than five years," in addition to fines.

From Salon

Prisoners across the country can be sentenced to hard labor, forced to work and punished if they refuse, including being sent to solitary confinement.

From Seattle Times