penalty

The definition of a penalty is a punishment, fine or a negative result of an act.

(noun)

An example of a penalty is having to attend traffic school for a getting a speeding ticket.

See penalty in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun pl. penalties

a punishment fixed by law, as for a crime or breach of contract
the disadvantage, suffering, handicap, etc. imposed upon an offender or one who does not fulfill a contract or obligation, as a fine or forfeit; specif., a forfeit paid for withdrawal before maturity of invested funds
any unfortunate consequence or result of an act or condition
Sports any disadvantage, as a loss of yardage or the removal of a player, imposed because of infraction of a rule

Origin: LME penalyte < ML poenalitas < L poenalis: see penal

See penalty in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun pl. pen·al·ties

A punishment established by law or authority for a crime or offense.
Something, especially a sum of money, required as a forfeit for an offense.
The disadvantage or painful consequences resulting from an action or condition: neglected his health and paid the penalty.
Sports
a. A punishment, handicap, or loss of advantage imposed on a team or competitor for infraction of a rule.
b. An infraction of a rule; a foul.
Games Points scored in contract bridge by the opponents when the declarer fails to make a bid. Often used in the plural.

Origin:

Origin: Middle English penalte

Origin: , from Old French penalite

Origin: , from Medieval Latin poenālitās

Origin: , from Latin poenālis, penal; see penal

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