punitive damages
plural noun
: damages awarded in excess of compensation to the plaintiff to punish a defendant for a serious wrong
Examples of punitive damages in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The five plaintiffs, who live in Florida, other parts of the United States and Spain, are seeking compensatory and punitive damages from Quero Silva, but their lawsuit may end up being more symbolic than financially rewarding.
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Jay Weaver, Miami Herald, 13 Feb. 2026
If the companies are found liable, the jury will consider whether to award Kaley damages for pain and suffering, and could also impose punitive damages.
—Melina Khan, USA Today, 10 Feb. 2026
Patel’s lawsuit seeks compensatory and punitive damages, along with attorneys’ fees.
—Shaddi Abusaid, AJC.com, 9 Feb. 2026
The punitive damages will be split equally among 24 Carson-area residents, amounting to $250,000 for each.
—Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 7 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for punitive damages
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Jay Weaver, Miami Herald, 13 Feb. 2026
If the companies are found liable, the jury will consider whether to award Kaley damages for pain and suffering, and could also impose punitive damages.
—Melina Khan, USA Today, 10 Feb. 2026
Patel’s lawsuit seeks compensatory and punitive damages, along with attorneys’ fees.
—Shaddi Abusaid, AJC.com, 9 Feb. 2026
The punitive damages will be split equally among 24 Carson-area residents, amounting to $250,000 for each.
—Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 7 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for punitive damages
Cite this Entry
“Punitive damages.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/punitive%20damages. Accessed 17 Feb. 2026.
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