Reformatory: meaning, definitions and examples

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reformatory

 

[ rɪˈfɔːrmətɔːri ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

institutional setting

A reformatory is an institution for the discipline, education, and training of young offenders. It is designed to reform young people who have committed crimes, offering a structured environment aimed at rehabilitation rather than punishment.

Synonyms

correctional facility, juvenile hall, reformatory school, rehabilitation center

Examples of usage

  • The juvenile was sent to a reformatory for his repeated offenses.
  • She worked at a reformatory that focused on vocational training.
  • The reformatory emphasized education to help reintegrate youth into society.

Translations

Translations of the word "reformatory" in other languages:

🇵🇹 reformatório

🇮🇳 सुधार गृह

🇩🇪 Erziehungsanstalt

🇮🇩 lembaga perbaikan

🇺🇦 виправна колонія

🇵🇱 zakład poprawczy

🇯🇵 更生施設

🇫🇷 centre de rééducation

🇪🇸 reformatorio

🇹🇷 ıslah evi

🇰🇷 교정시설

🇸🇦 مؤسسة إصلاحية

🇨🇿 výchovný ústav

🇸🇰 výchovný ústav

🇨🇳 感化院

🇸🇮 reformatorski dom

🇮🇸 umbreytingarheimili

🇰🇿 тәрбиелеу орны

🇬🇪 რეფორმატორი

🇦🇿 islah evi

🇲🇽 reformatorio

Etymology

The term 'reformatory' originates from the late 18th century, derived from the word 'reform' which means 'to improve or amend'. The concept of reforming individuals, particularly young offenders, gained traction in the 19th century as society recognized the need for rehabilitation over mere punishment. The first reformatories were established in the United States following the belief that juvenile delinquency could be addressed effectively through education, discipline, and moral guidance. Over time, reformatory institutions evolved, adopting various rehabilitative strategies and educational programs to support the reintegration of young individuals into society. However, the term has also faced criticism due to some reformatories' conditions, often resembling prisons instead of constructive correctional environments.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,126, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.