poetic justice

American  

noun

1. an ideal distribution of rewards and punishments such as is common in some poetry and fiction.

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poetic justice British  

noun

1. fitting retribution; just deserts

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poetic justice Idioms  

1. An outcome in which virtue is rewarded and evil punished, often in an especially appropriate or ironic manner. For example, It was poetic justice for the known thief to go to jail for the one crime he didn't commit. [Early 1700s]

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Etymology

Origin of poetic justice

First recorded in 1720–30

Example Sentences

The hum for readers of this well-crafted book comes from seeing its determined protagonist try to foil that scheme while ensuring poetic justice.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 5, 2026

But among those who have spoken anonymously, some see Huntley's death as poetic justice, a blessing in disguise.

From BBC • Mar. 7, 2026

If the railroad ultimately allows the city to build a trail — and that trail indeed brings in more tourist dollars — many locals says it would be poetic justice.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 26, 2025

It's poetic justice that they get to be first in line to start holding him accountable.

From Salon • Apr. 4, 2023

My heart had been set on obtaining poetic justice for Maida; but I knew she wouldn't wish me to plead.

From Lord John in New York by Williamson, A. M. (Alice Muriel)