punish

[puhn-ish] / ˈpʌn ɪʃ /

VERB

penalize for wrongdoing

Synonyms

STRONGEST

abuse chastise correct crack down on discipline dismiss execute expel fine harm hurt incarcerate sentence

STRONG

batter beat blacklist castigate chasten cuff debar defrock exile flog immure injure lash lecture maltreat misuse oppress paddle reprove scourge spank switch train whip

WEAK

attend to beat up do in give a going over give the works knock about rap knuckles rough up slap wrist teach a lesson throw the book at

Antonyms

STRONGEST

aid assist benefit compliment help preserve welcome

STRONG

boost guard lose praise protect surrender

WEAK

award exonerate let go reward

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.

An escalation shouldn’t punish the people more than the regime.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

The former set the tone with unflappable correctness while his partner was more aggressive, and quick to punish bowling which began to err in line as the partnership grew.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

Crime and Policing Minister Sarah Jones called the incidents "disgraceful" and urged police to use all the tools at their disposal to protect workers and punish those responsible.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

States, Jackson noted, have long assumed the power to punish medical professionals for what they say in addition to what they do.

From Slate • Mar. 31, 2026

"And how do you punish kids who break your rules?"

From "Born Behind Bars" by Padma Venkatraman

punish

Example Sentences

Related Words