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

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

From Salon

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

In 2023, lawmakers balked at passing Newsom’s proposal to penalize oil companies that earn excessive profits.

From Los Angeles Times

He will also be expected to overhaul a disciplinary system that some argue seems to penalize the accuser more than the accused.

From Los Angeles Times

States rarely attempt to penalize campaign ads or the media companies that air them, but when they do, they are consistently shot down in court.

From Slate

Related Words

• castigate
• chastise
• discipline
• fine