reform school

[ ri-fawrm skool ]

noun

1. (no longer in official use) reformatory ( def 2 ).

Word History and Origins

Origin of reform school¹

An Americanism dating back to 1855–60

Example Sentences

Certainly, there could have been a more straightforward adaptation of Colson Whitehead’s acclaimed novel about the friendship between two Black boys at a brutal Florida reform school in the early 1960s.

From Los Angeles Times

In “Boys,” Elwood and Turner are locked up in a reform school in 1960s Florida and become allies and friends quickly to survive.

From Los Angeles Times

Two young men are abused at a reform school called the Nickel Academy in 1960s Florida.

From BBC

It follows Elwood Curtis and his friend Turner - two young men who are abused during their time at a reform school called the Nickel Academy in 1960s Florida.

From BBC

He spent years in juvenile detention, reform school and jail.

From Los Angeles Times