PENALTY definition: a punishment imposed or incurred for a violation of law or rule. See examples of penalty used in a sentence. There are ten meanings listed in OED's entry for the noun penalty, three of which are labelled obsolete.

Understanding the Context

See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence. The meaning of PENALTY is the suffering in person, rights, or property that is annexed by law or judicial decision to the commission of a crime or public offense. PENALTY meaning: 1. a punishment, or the usual punishment, for doing something that is against a law: 2.

Key Insights

a type of…. Learn more. Definition of penalty noun from the Oxford Advanced American Dictionary. a punishment for breaking a law, rule, or contract to impose a penalty Assault carries a maximum penalty of seven years' imprisonment. penalty (for something) The penalty for traveling without a ticket is $200.

Final Thoughts

A penalty is a punishment that someone is given for doing something which is against a law or rule. One of those arrested could face the death penalty. The maximum penalty is up to 7 years' imprisonment or an unlimited fine. Define penalty. penalty synonyms, penalty pronunciation, penalty translation, English dictionary definition of penalty. n.

pl. pen al ties 1. A punishment imposed for a violation of law. 2.