- present tense form of punish (3rd person singular).
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“It reflects a legitimate and important state interest in protecting people from harassment and threats. But at the same time, this bill punishes the publication of information.”
From Los Angeles Times • May 4, 2026
Gattuso admitted the team's shortcomings: "When you have chances and don't take them, football punishes you."
From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026
“We see telltale signs of a market distorted beyond recognition, one that punishes strategic investment, one that punishes diversification,” Vice President JD Vance said.
From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 9, 2026
The Wall Street Journal reported External link an executive order on Wednesday that punishes companies that were late on contracts or behind schedule.
From Barron's • Jan. 7, 2026
It was a typical summer Miami afternoon where the humidity punishes any and all.
From "The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora" by Pablo Cartaya
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