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

Darcy, Williams’ lawyer, pleaded for a lighter, 15-to-life sentence. — John Annese, New York Daily News, 12 Aug. 2026

If convicted at the end of the state trial, Mangione could face 25 years to life in prison for his crimes, and the federal charges could carry a life sentence without the possibility of parole. — Claire Carter, The Washington Examiner, 12 Aug. 2026

The country’s parliament overwhelmingly passed the measure in a landmark vote, making life sentence with hard labor the highest penalty that can be imposed. — Mohamad El Chamaa, Washington Post, 11 Aug. 2026

Since Jason Showers is a habitual offender with at least four prior felony convictions, the judge will be able to impose a life sentence if he is convicted of any one of the four top charges, prosecutors said. — James Cirrone, FOXNews.com, 7 Aug. 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