penalty

[ pen-l-tee ]

noun

, plural pen·al·ties.

1. a punishment imposed or incurred for a violation of law or rule.
2. a loss, forfeiture, suffering, or the like, to which one subjects oneself by nonfulfillment of some obligation.
3. something that is forfeited, as a sum of money.
4. a disadvantage imposed upon one of the competitors or upon one side for infraction of the rules of a game, sport, etc.
5. consequence or disadvantage attached to any action, condition, etc.

penalty

/ ˈpɛnəltɪ /

noun

1. a legal or official punishment, such as a term of imprisonment
2. some other form of punishment, such as a fine or forfeit for not fulfilling a contract
3. loss, suffering, or other unfortunate result of one's own action, error, etc
4. sport games a handicap awarded against a player or team for illegal play, such as a free shot at goal by the opposing team, loss of points, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of penalty¹

1505–15; ≪ Medieval Latin poenālitās. See penal, -ty ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of penalty¹

C16: from Medieval Latin poenālitās penalty; see penal

Example Sentences

It is under these extreme and violent circumstances that Huangting Gong, 30, could face the death penalty, according to the Orange County District Attorney’s Office.

From Los Angeles Times

Daniel James says his Euros penalty heartache is behind him – if not entirely forgotten – as he aims to make up for lost time with Craig Bellamy’s Wales.

From BBC

Every time they appeared on their way, however, they committed a turnover, gave up a sack or they were called for a penalty.

From Los Angeles Times

A smart Rams culture that rarely makes dumb mistakes committed six penalties for 64 yards, including an illegal procedure by lineman Beaux Limmer that cost them a field goal.

From Los Angeles Times

The policy is considered more of a guideline, however, since there is no legal penalty for not following it.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• cost
• discipline
• fine
• forfeiture
• punishment