Synonyms of punishment

punishment

noun

ˈpə-nish-mənt 

as in penalty

suffering, loss, or hardship imposed in response to a crime or offense

he is serving five years in prison as punishment for aggravated assault

Synonyms & Similar Words

• penalty
• wrath
• sentence
• chastisement
• discipline
• castigation
• correction
• comeuppance
• condemnation
• retribution
• nemesis
• retaliation
• revenge
• reprimand
• vengeance
• desert(s)
• reprisal
• fine
• criticism
• imprisonment
• assessment
• example
• confinement
• incarceration
• damnation
• censure
• charge
• rebuke
• mulct
• denouncement
• reproof

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• parole
• indemnity
• pardon
• amnesty
• vindication
• acquittal
• exemption
• immunity
• exoneration
• impunity
• release
• exculpation
• forgiveness
• commutation
• remission
• reprieve
• absolution
• disregard
• condonation
• remitment
• overlooking

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of punishment

Students are often prohibited from using AI in class and subject to punishment if they’re caught. — Reed Albergotti, semafor.com, 30 Oct. 2026

His punishment, the league and then the team decided, has been served. — Sam McDowell, Kansas City Star, 29 Oct. 2026

Thanks to a ruling by Judge William Jorden in the favor of the athletes, both players were eligible to be rostered by Lane Kiffin and the LSU Tigers without punishment from the SEC. — Trey Wallace Outkick, FOXNews.com, 29 Oct. 2026

Three men have been sentenced to life in prison for killing their partners since the punishment was introduced in 2012. — ABC News, 28 Oct. 2026