penalize

[ peen-l-ahyz, pen- ]

verb (used with object)

, pe·nal·ized, pe·nal·iz·ing.

1. to subject to a penalty, as a person.
2. to declare (an action, deed, etc.) punishable by law or rule.
3. to put under a disadvantage or handicap.

penalize

/ ˈpiːnəˌlaɪz /

verb

1. to impose a penalty on (someone), as for breaking a law or rule
2. to inflict a handicap or disadvantage on
3. sport to award a free stroke, point, or penalty against (a player or team)
4. to declare (an act) legally punishable; make subject to a penalty

Derived Forms

• ˌpenaliˈzation, noun

Other Words From

• penal·iza·ble adjective
• penal·i·zation noun
• non·penal·ized adjective
• over·penal·i·zation noun
• over·penal·ize verb (used with object) overpenalized overpenalizing
• re·penal·ize verb (used with object) repenalized repenalizing
• un·penal·ized adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of penalize¹

First recorded in 1865–70; penal + -ize

Example Sentences

It's physically and emotionally devastating enough without the fear that you and your healthcare provider may be questioned, scrutinized, penalized, that you may have your life endangered, for how it's managed.

From Salon

The initiative sought to prohibit any laws that “penalize, delay, or restrict abortion” before fetal viability.

From Salon

It also would prevent the state from penalizing anyone who assists another person in exercising their right to abortion.

From Salon

Offensive linemen were penalized multiple times but they mostly kept Stafford out of harm’s way.

From Los Angeles Times

More than 6 in 10 renters in that survey believed that the lack of affordable housing in the city was so serious that the state government should penalize local governments that block construction.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• castigate
• chastise
• discipline
• fine