plural sentences
1
: a group of words that expresses a statement, question, command, or wish
Note: Sentences usually contain a subject and verb. In written English, the first word of a sentence is capitalized and the sentence ends with a period, question mark, or exclamation point.
2
law
: the punishment given by a court of law
a harsh/lenient sentence
a prison/jail sentence
He is serving a 10-year sentence for armed robbery.
The judge passed/pronounced sentence on him. [=announced what his punishment would be]
sentences; sentenced; sentencing
law
: to officially state the punishment given to (someone) by a court of law
The defendant was sentenced and fined.
—usually + toThe judge sentenced him to prison.
Cite this Entry
“Sentence.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/sentence. Accessed 15 Jun. 2026.
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