life sentence

noun

plural life sentences

: a sentence of imprisonment for the remainder of a convicted person's life when there is no possibility of parole or for a minimum number of years under applicable law until the convicted person becomes eligible for and is granted parole

Examples of life sentence in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Those sentenced to death in Kenyan courts serve a life sentence. — ABC News, 6 Nov. 2026

Romero had been serving a life sentence with the possibility of parole for second-degree murder. — Richard Ramos, CBS News, 6 Nov. 2026

Nineteen major Nazi leaders were convicted, resulting in 12 death sentences, three life sentences and four prison terms ranging from 10 to 20 years. — Natalie Livingstone, Sun Sentinel, 3 Nov. 2026

Prosecuting attorney Andrew Haws asked the court to impose a life sentence, arguing that Paz posed a risk to law enforcement and the community. — Harllie Stevenson, Idaho Statesman, 30 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1817, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for life sentence

• presentence
• repentance

Legal Definition

life sentence

see also:

sentence