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

Even if they succeed, families can win only actual and not punitive damages from the federal government.

From The Daily Beast

If she wins, she will be entitled to punitive damages as well.

From The Daily Beast

So what can a corporation do to protect itself against punitive-damages awards such as this?

From The Daily Beast

There shall be no annexations, no contributions, no punitive damages.

From Project Gutenberg

He was therefore entitled to punitive damages, but none were allowed him.

From Project Gutenberg

"Punitive damages" are awarded to punish the perpetrator of the injury.

From Project Gutenberg