Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
lex talionis
Noun
ˌlɛks tæˈliːənɪs
Definition
The principle of ‘an eye for an eye’, where punishment corresponds to the injury inflicted.
Examples
- In ancient societies, the concept of lex talionis was often used to justify harsh punishments.
- The judge referred to lex talionis to ensure that penalties were fair and equivalent to the offenses committed.
Meaning
It refers to the legal principle that a person who has harmed another is to be punished in a manner proportional to the severity of the harm done.
Synonyms
- Retributive justice
- Retributive punishment
- Equal justice
