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.
Organizations need transparent goal-setting, equitable evaluation systems that don’t penalize flexibility and cultural change that values contribution over face time—a significant mindset shift. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 20 Oct. 2026 Smelters reject or penalize this dangerous contaminant, forcing miners to destroy it using energy-intensive, high-emission furnaces. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 19 Oct. 2026 Despite the win, the Panthers were heavily penalized, recording the most penalty yards in a single game in franchise history. — Charlotte Observer, 18 Oct. 2026 The terms of the injunction prevent the NCAA from penalizing Council for playing, or KU for playing him. — Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 15 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

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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 27 Oct. 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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