Penalty
(noun)
- A punishment inflicted on someone as retribution for a wrong or criminal act they have committed.
- A fine or other disadvantage imposed on someone for breaking a law, rule, or agreement.
- A disadvantage or negative consequence resulting from a particular action or decision.
Origin:
Late middle english from old french penalte, from latin poena meaning punishment.
Examples:
- The judge imposed a heavy penalty on the criminal for his crimes.
- You will have to pay a penalty if you don't return the library book on time.
- There is a penalty for being late on your loan payments.
- The company was penalized for violating environmental regulations.
- The team suffered a 5-yard penalty for holding during the play.