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Penitentiary Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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penitentiary

[ˌpenɪˈtɛnʃ(ə)ri ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

criminal justice system

A penitentiary is a prison for people who have been convicted of serious crimes. It is a high-security facility where inmates serve their sentences.

Synonyms

correctional facility, jail, prison.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
penitentiary

This term is often used in a formal or legal context to describe a long-term facility for serious crimes. It suggests a place where offenders are not just detained but are also subject to moral reform.

  • The convict was sentenced to ten years in the state penitentiary.
  • The penitentiary has strict rules to ensure the safety of both inmates and staff.
prison

This word generally refers to a long-term facility where individuals serve time for serious crimes. It is the most commonly used term across various contexts.

  • He was sent to prison for armed robbery.
  • Prison conditions have been a topic of debate among human rights activists.
jail

This term is commonly used to denote a short-term facility for holding individuals awaiting trial or serving short sentences, often for minor crimes.

  • The suspect was taken to the local jail to await trial.
  • She spent a night in jail for a minor offense.
correctional facility

Used in a more formal and modern context, this term refers to various types of institutions, including both jails and prisons, where individuals are held for rehabilitation.

  • He was transferred to a correctional facility close to his hometown.
  • Correctional facilities aim to rehabilitate offenders and prepare them for reentry into society.

Examples of usage

  • The notorious criminal was sentenced to life in a penitentiary.
  • Visitors are not allowed inside the penitentiary without proper authorization.
Context #2 | Adjective

related to punishment

Penitentiary can also be used as an adjective to describe something related to punishment or correction, especially in a legal context.

Synonyms

corrective, punitive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
penitentiary

Used when referring to a large, secure prison where serious criminals are held, often for long periods.

  • He was sentenced to ten years in the state penitentiary.
  • The penitentiary has maximum security measures to prevent escapes.
punitive

Used when describing actions or measures intended to punish rather than reform; often has a negative connotation.

  • The judge imposed punitive fines to deter similar behavior in the future.
  • The new law has a punitive approach towards minor offenses.
corrective

Used when talking about measures or institutions aimed at reforming and rehabilitating offenders rather than just punishing them.

  • The juvenile was sent to a corrective facility to get back on the right path.
  • Corrective programs often include educational and vocational training.

Examples of usage

  • The judge imposed a penitentiary sentence on the convicted felon.
  • She underwent penitentiary rehabilitation programs to reform her behavior.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The first modern penitentiary, built in Pennsylvania in the late 1700s, emphasized rehabilitation over punishment.
  • Prisons in Europe during the Middle Ages often focused on punishment rather than reform, a significant change occurred with the rise of the penitentiary concept.

Cultural Depictions

  • Penitentiaries often appear in movies and books, highlighting the experiences of inmates and their journeys to redemption.
  • The famous film 'The Shawshank Redemption' showcases life inside a penitentiary and the theme of hope amid despair.

Psychology

  • Research shows that harsh prison environments may increase recidivism, making rehabilitation crucial for reducing crime.
  • The concept of restorative justice, emphasizing healing and reparation, contrasts with traditional punitive models.

Modern-Day Issues

  • Many penitentiaries face overcrowding, leading to calls for reform to improve prisoner well-being and outcomes.
  • The debate surrounding the effectiveness of penitentiaries often includes discussions on mental health services for inmates.

Origin of 'penitentiary'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'paenitentia,' meaning 'repentance' or 'sorrow for sin.'
  • In the 18th century, 'penitentiary' referred to a place designed for people to reflect on their actions and reform.

The word 'penitentiary' originated from the Latin word 'paenitentia', meaning penance or repentance. In the early days, penitentiaries were often associated with religious institutions and were meant to provide a place for prisoners to reflect on their sins and seek redemption. Over time, the concept evolved into a more secular form of incarceration focused on punishment and rehabilitation.

See also: penitence, penitently.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,523, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.