Punishment

Definition

Punishment is a noun that refers to the act of inflicting a penalty or consequence on someone as a result of their wrongdoing, typically as a corrective or deterrent measure.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈpʌn.ɪʃ.mənt/
• Respelling: PUHN-ish-muhnt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈpʌn.ɪʃ.mənt/
• Respelling: PUHN-ish-muhnt

Etymology

The word "punishment" originates from the Latin "punire," meaning "to punish," which in turn comes from "poena," meaning "penalty." It entered Middle English in the late 13th century through Old French "punissement."

Derivatives

• Punish (verb)
• Punitive (adjective)
• Unpunished (adjective)
• Overpunishment (noun)
• Self-punishment (noun)

Synonyms

• Penalty
• Reprimand
• Sanction

Antonyms

• Reward
• Forgiveness
• Exemption

Usage

The term "punishment" is often used in legal, social, and educational contexts. Examples include "The court decided on a suitable punishment for the crime" and "Parents should ensure that punishment is fair and constructive."

Related Terms

• Discipline: The practice of training people to obey rules or a code of behavior.
• Justice: The quality of being fair and reasonable, often involving penalties for wrongdoing.
• Penalty: A punishment imposed for breaking a law, rule, or contract.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The act of penalizing someone for wrongdoing: Refers to a consequence imposed for breaking rules or laws.
  • Example: "The punishment for theft is often imprisonment."
• A penalty designed to correct behavior: Refers to actions intended to change or discourage undesirable behavior.
  • Example: "Detention is a common form of punishment in schools."
• Severe treatment or suffering: Refers to physical or mental pain inflicted as a consequence.
  • Example: "The athlete endured the punishment of a grueling training regimen."