Definition

Related to punishment or laws that impose penalties for breaking rules.

Example

The judge imposed a penal sentence on the offender for his crimes.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new penal reforms they are discussing in the news?

Yeah, it sounds like they want to change a lot about how we handle punishments.

I think it's about time we reconsidered some of those penal laws.

Absolutely, some of them feel outdated and ineffective.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Penal → It is derived from 'poena' (meaning punishment) in Latin. The word 'penal' relates to punishment or penalties, especially in a legal context.

Memory Tip

Think of 'poena' meaning punishment to remember that 'penal' refers to matters related to punishment.

Visually Confused Words