adjective

punitive

punitive

The company faced punitive damages.

The company faced punitive damages.

He called for punitive measures against the regime.

He called for punitive measures against the regime.

punitive ((sth.)) intended as a punishment The court ordered punitive damages.

Synonyms: penal, disciplinary; Antonyms: rewarding, beneficial

From Latin 'punire' meaning 'to punish'. It shares the same root as the word 'punish'.

Think of 'punish' + the adjective ending '-itive'. It describes something that is intended as a punishment.

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