Main Entry: pu·ni·tive

Pronunciation: \ˈpyü-nə-tiv\

Function: adjective

Etymology: French punitif, from Medieval Latin punitivus, from Latin punitus, past participle of punire

Date: 1624

: inflicting, involving, or aiming at punishment <severe punitive measures>

— pu·ni·tive·ly adverb

— pu·ni·tive·ness noun