Punish

Definition

The term "punish" describes the act of imposing a penalty on someone as a consequence of wrongdoing or unacceptable behavior.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈpʌn.ɪʃ/
• Respelling: PUN-ish

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈpʌn.ɪʃ/
• Respelling: PUN-ish

Etymology

The word "punish" originates from the Latin "punire," meaning "to inflict pain or a penalty," which is derived from "poena," meaning "penalty" or "pain." It entered Middle English via Old French "punir" in the 13th century.

Derivatives

• Punishment (noun)
• Punishable (adjective)
• Punitive (adjective)
• Overpunish (verb)
• Punisher (noun)

Synonyms

• Discipline
• Reprimand
• Penalize

Antonyms

• Reward
• Praise
• Forgive

Usage

The term "punish" is commonly used in legal, social, and disciplinary contexts. For example, "The court decided to punish the offender with a fine," or "Parents often punish children by restricting privileges."

Related Terms

• Penalty: A punishment imposed for breaking a rule or law.
• Discipline: A method of training or controlling behavior through correction.
• Retribution: Punishment inflicted as vengeance for a wrong act.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To impose a penalty or sanction on someone for an offense or wrongdoing:
  • Example: "The teacher decided to punish the student for cheating on the test."
• To cause suffering or loss as a consequence of unacceptable behavior:
  • Example: "The company was punished with a hefty fine for violating safety regulations."
• To discipline or correct through punitive measures:
  • Example: "He believes it is necessary to punish bad behavior to enforce rules."