penalize

verb

pe·​nal·​ize ˈpē-nə-ˌlīz How to pronounce penalize (audio) ˈpe- How to pronounce penalize (audio)
penalized; penalizing
Synonyms of penalize

transitive verb

1
: to inflict a penalty on
2
: to put at a serious disadvantage
penalization
ˈpē-nə-lə-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce penalize (audio)
noun

Synonyms of penalize

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Examples of penalize in a Sentence

The company was penalized for not paying taxes. The hockey player was penalized for holding. This law would unfairly penalize immigrants.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Supporters say licensing will give California the authority to act on any complaints, and to investigate and penalize companies for unfair or deceptive practices. — Audrey McGlinchy, Los Angeles Times, 28 Oct. 2026 In recent weeks, top Democrats in the House and the Senate have proposed legislation that would impose sanctions on Israel for building settlements, making clear to Israeli companies and banks that they could be penalized for ties to such activity. — Annie Karni, New York Times, 27 Oct. 2026 The Falcons went three-and-out on their second drive, a series done in when a check-down throw on 2nd-and-7 to Robinson was unproductive and then the Falcons were penalized for having too many players in the huddle on third down. — AJC.com, 25 Oct. 2026 Miami seized the win by playing a disciplined brand of football for the first time, not penalizing themselves in critical moments. — Omar Kelly october 25, Miami Herald, 25 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for penalize

Word History

First Known Use

1888, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of penalize was in 1888

Rhymes for penalize

See All Rhymes for penalize

Browse Nearby Words

penalization
penalize
penally
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Cite this Entry

“Penalize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/penalize. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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Kids Definition

penalize

verb
pe·​nal·​ize ˈpēn-ᵊl-ˌīz How to pronounce penalize (audio) ˈpen- How to pronounce penalize (audio)
penalized; penalizing
1
: to give a penalty to
2
: to place at a disadvantage
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