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

Kaczynski ultimately pleaded guilty in 1998 in exchange for a life sentence without the possibility of parole. — Jane Lacroix, PEOPLE, 26 Sep. 2026

Hours before the arrest, Cooper posted a video criticizing Edwards’ release and questioning how he had been paroled after receiving three life sentences. — Daniel Lempres, Sacbee.com, 25 Sep. 2026

In May, a jury in Florida convicted four men in the killing, and at least five others have pleaded guilty and are serving life sentences. — Evens Sanon, Arkansas Online, 21 Sep. 2026

Sanchez, 35, is serving a life sentence for assault with a firearm, burglary and firing a gun at an occupied car. — Matthew Ormseth, Los Angeles Times, 20 Sep. 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