penalize

verb

pe·​nal·​ize ˈpē-nə-ˌlīz  ˈpe- 

penalized; penalizing

transitive verb

1

: to inflict a penalty on

2

: to put at a serious disadvantage

penalization

ˈpē-nə-lə-ˈzā-shən 

noun

Synonyms

• castigate
• chasten
• chastise
• correct
• discipline
• punish

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

Along the way to the Titans owning the first half, Cherry Creek was heavily penalized (seven times for 68 yards). —Kyle Newman, The Denver Post, 7 Dec. 2024

If other teams have saved money in their pool, in anticipation of Sasaki potentially coming over ... then those teams should not be penalized. —Mark R. Weaver, Newsweek, 3 Dec. 2024

Richardson was also penalized for intentional grounding in the fourth quarter. —Colton Pouncy, The Athletic, 24 Nov. 2024

The new league aims to provide domestic playing opportunities and bypass the WNBA's prioritization rule, which penalizes players who arrive late from overseas commitments. —Lindsey Darvin, Forbes, 22 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1888, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

penalize

verb

pe·​nal·​ize ˈpēn-ᵊl-ˌīz  ˈpen- 

penalized; penalizing

1

: to give a penalty to

2

: to place at a disadvantage