plural penalties
1
: punishment for breaking a rule or law
The company was given/assessed a severe/stiff penalty for the violation.
They allowed him to pay back the money without a penalty.
They allowed him to pay back the money without penalty.
2
: a disadvantage or difficulty you experience
Lack of privacy is one of the penalties you pay for fame.
3
: a punishment or disadvantage given to a team or player for breaking a rule in a game
The hockey player was given/assessed a penalty for holding.
Cite this Entry
“Penalty.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/penalty. Accessed 19 Jun. 2026.
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