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

On one count, Bell received a life sentence without the option for parole until after serving 25 years, according to a news release from the office of Leavenworth County Attorney. — Laura Bauer, Kansas City Star, 23 Oct. 2026

Imprisoned since 2004 and serving a life sentence, Buchanan was accused of directing drug sales, extortion, gambling and violence across San Diego County and beyond. — Matthew Ormseth, Los Angeles Times, 22 Oct. 2026

Since ancient times, injury to the spinal cord has been seen as something of a life sentence. — Mike McRae 21, New Atlas, 22 Oct. 2026

In addition to murder charges, Zhang and Chen were charged with personal use of a firearm causing death, and lying in wait, a special circumstance that carries the possibility of a life sentence without parole. — Tim Fang, CBS News, 20 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