penal code

noun

: a code of laws concerning crimes and offenses and their punishment

Examples of penal code in a Sentence

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.
Thousands have repeatedly taken to the streets across Slovakia recently to rally against Fico’s pro-Russian and other policies, including plans to amend the penal code and cancel a top prosecution dealing with corruption. San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Apr. 2024 Without the injury, Capobianco and Peter still may be in violation of New York penal code section 240.26. Dan Freedman, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024 Robbery by threat is a second-degree felony, according to the Texas penal code. Marley Malenfant, Austin American-Statesman, 21 Mar. 2024 The initiative amends the state penal code to allow prosecutors to bypass the $950 threshold that separates petty theft, a misdemeanor, from grand theft, a felony. Robert Salonga, The Mercury News, 6 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for penal code 

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1777, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of penal code was circa 1777

Dictionary Entries Near penal code

Cite this Entry

“Penal code.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/penal%20code. Accessed 27 Dec. 2024.

Legal Definition

penal code

noun
: a code of laws concerning crimes and their punishments
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!