Word Games Pro Dictionary

penitentiary

adjective noun

Showing or constituting penance

Quick reference

Word Facts

Word length
12
Starts with
P
Ends with
Y
Contains
EN
Scrabble score
17

How it sounds

Pronunciation

ˌpɛnɪˈtɛnʃəɹi

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Audio Pronunciation

Meaning

Definitions

adjective

  1. Showing or constituting penance

    “Penitential tears”

adjective

  1. Used for punishment or reform of criminals or wrongdoers

    “Penitentiary institutions”

noun

  1. A correctional institution for those convicted of major crimes

In context

Example Sentences

Penitential tears
Wrote a penitential letter apologizing for her hasty words
Penitentiary institutions

Similar words

Synonyms

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