punitive damages

plural noun

, Law.

1. damages awarded to a plaintiff in excess of compensatory damages in order to punish the defendant for a reckless or willful act.

Word History and Origins

Origin of punitive damages¹

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

The jury awarded plaintiffs Mr al-Shimari, a middle school headmaster, Mr al-Ejaili, a journalist, and Mr al-Zubae, a fruit vendor, $3m each in compensatory damages and $11m each in punitive damages.

From BBC

A Florida appeals court ruled in June that there was enough evidence of negligence and actual malice by CNN to allow Young to seek punitive damages from the network.

From Los Angeles Times

The Dodgers were required to pay for medical expenses, pain and suffering and lost wages, but did not have to pay punitive damages.

From Los Angeles Times

FPF had sued Wilson in his individual capacity, seeking monetary compensation, including punitive damages, to make up for the violation of rights and “deter repetition.”

From Slate

Attorneys for the tenants are seeking awards for punitive damages or exemplary damages.

From Los Angeles Times