punitive damages

plural noun

: damages awarded in excess of compensation to the plaintiff to punish a defendant for a serious wrong

Examples of punitive damages in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Doe is pursuing legal action for damages against him for economic, compensatory, non-economic (i.e. emotional distress and humiliation) and punitive damages. Kevin Dolak, The Hollywood Reporter, 11 Feb. 2025 The lawsuit seeks a declaratory judgement absolving Wallace of liability in the matter, as well as damages for defamation, including at least $6 million in punitive damages. Gene Maddaus, Variety, 5 Feb. 2025 The jury awarded Young $5 million in damages and is now being asked to determine whether CNN must pay additional punitive damages. David Bauder, Sun Sentinel, 17 Jan. 2025 The plaintiff is seeking punitive damages and legal fees due to alleged negligence on behalf of the company and the property owner after receiving life-altering injuries at the party in 2022. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 30 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for punitive damages 

Word History

First Known Use

1858, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of punitive damages was in 1858

Dictionary Entries Near punitive damages

Cite this Entry

“Punitive damages.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/punitive%20damages. Accessed 21 Feb. 2025.

Legal Definition

punitive damages

see damage sense 2

More from Merriam-Webster on punitive damages

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