punitive

Also pu·ni·to·ry

[pyoo-ni-tiv]

adjective

1. serving for, concerned with, or inflicting punishment.

   punitive laws; punitive action.

punitive

/ ˈpjuːnɪtərɪ, ˈpjuːnɪtɪv, -trɪ /

adjective

1. relating to, involving, or with the intention of inflicting punishment

   a punitive expedition

Other Word Forms

• punitively adverb
• punitiveness noun
• nonpunitive adjective
• nonpunitory adjective
• self-punitive adjective
• semipunitive adjective
• semipunitory adjective
• unpunitive adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of punitive¹

1615–25; < Medieval Latin pūnītīvus of punishment, equivalent to Latin pūnīt ( us ) (past participle of pūnīre to punish ) + -īvus -ive

Word History and Origins

Origin of punitive¹

C17: from Medieval Latin pūnītīvus concerning punishment, from Latin pūnīre to punish

Example Sentences

Seeing these actions, Schiff worries about further punitive measures against California.

From Los Angeles Times

They are seeking compensatory and punitive damages in an amount to be determined at trial.

From Los Angeles Times

Harrison and her partner are seeking an order requiring Dignity Health hospitals to provide emergency abortions in a manner compliant with state law, as well as compensatory and punitive damages.

From Los Angeles Times

He said that would lead to "punitive labelling of schools", more work and "increased stress" for staff and students - as well as a "narrowing curriculum" geared towards tests rather than being "broad and balanced".

From BBC

"Israel will not be restrained unless there are serious punitive acts."

From BBC

Related Words

• disciplinary 
• penal 
• punishing 
• retaliatory 
• vindictive