Definitions

punitive damages

NOUN

compensation in excess of actual damage

Synonyms

WEAK

amercement compensatory damages damages financial penalty

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.

This week he filed a malicious prosecution lawsuit, seeking compensatory and punitive damages against Rueda and deep-pocketed law firms Khan Law Office and Withers Bergman, as well as defunct firm Pierce Bainbridge Beck Price & Hecht.

From Los Angeles Times

Shiber at one point sought up to $20 million, related to lost potential earnings, emotional impact and punitive damages against the firm.

From The Wall Street Journal

It did not back Dean's claim for more than $144m in punitive damages against the firm.

From BBC

“They awarded an amount far below what was sought, and declined to award punitive damages altogether.”

From The Wall Street Journal

The family members are seeking punitive damages, the amount of which would be determined at trial.

From Barron's