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

The punishment amounted to one of the largest in American sports history and included the Clippers being fined US$30 million and stripped of five future first-round draft picks, with team owner Steve Ballmer receiving a one-year suspension. — Alex Volonte, The Conversation, 1 Oct. 2026

Once people become angry, confront the protesters or call for their punishment, the protest generates a second event — the reaction. — Chris Roemer, Baltimore Sun, 1 Oct. 2026

According to the official league handbook, potential punishments could include a hefty points deduction, an unlimited fine, or even expulsion from the league entirely. — Ben Church, CNN Money, 30 Sep. 2026

In foster care, they're then moved from one placement to another and often end up in therapeutic group homes or residential treatment centers that use more punishment techniques. — Joseph Shapiro, NPR, 30 Sep. 2026