punitive damages

American  

plural noun

Law.

1. damages awarded to a plaintiff in excess of compensatory damages in order to punish the defendant for a reckless or willful act.

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Etymology

Origin of punitive damages

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

This week he filed a malicious prosecution lawsuit, seeking compensatory and punitive damages against Rueda and deep-pocketed law firms Khan Law Office and Withers Bergman, as well as defunct firm Pierce Bainbridge Beck Price & Hecht.

From Los Angeles Times

Shiber at one point sought up to $20 million, related to lost potential earnings, emotional impact and punitive damages against the firm.

From The Wall Street Journal

It did not back Dean's claim for more than $144m in punitive damages against the firm.

From BBC

“They awarded an amount far below what was sought, and declined to award punitive damages altogether.”

From The Wall Street Journal

The family members are seeking punitive damages, the amount of which would be determined at trial.

From Barron's