lex talionis

[ leks tal-ee-oh-nis ]

noun

1. the principle or law of retaliation that a punishment inflicted should correspond in degree and kind to the offense of the wrongdoer, as an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth; retributive justice.

lex talionis

/ ˌtælɪˈəʊnɪs /

noun

1. the law of revenge or retaliation

Word History and Origins

Origin of lex talionis¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; from Latin lēx tāliōnis “law of talion” ( talion ( def ) )

Word History and Origins

Origin of lex talionis¹

C16: New Latin

Example Sentences

With the latter, the lex talionis—the law of retaliation—governs the basic rules of “eye for an eye” justice.

From The Daily Beast

It is time that the lex talionis should be applied to those who have so often made themselves merry at our expense.

From Project Gutenberg

In the prairies of the Far West, this law is exactly the same as the ancient lex talionis of the Hebrews.

From Project Gutenberg

The lex talionis has been abolished by the law of civilization and the higher law of the gospel.

From Project Gutenberg

In fact, it seems that a savage lex talionis is wholly satisfying to the feudists on both sides.

From Project Gutenberg

Perhaps she has something to complain of; but if she has any conscience at all, she ought to recognize the lex talionis.

From Project Gutenberg