Definitions

death penalty

NOUN

execution of a condemned person

Synonyms

STRONGEST

capital punishment

WEAK

death sentence death warrant execution judicial execution judicial murder legalized killing

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Ma supports the death penalty for those who kill police officers in the line of duty or commit heinous crimes against women and children.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

Nationwide, support for the death penalty has been waning for decades.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 24, 2026

Some states, which each have their own laws regarding the death penalty, have already turned to alternative methods.

From BBC • Apr. 24, 2026

But Iran's judiciary described his remarks as "false news", saying the women had never faced the death penalty.

From Barron's • Apr. 23, 2026

He wondered whether Wisconsin had the death penalty.

From "American Gods" by Neil Gaiman