Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

penal-system

noun

/ˈpiː.nəl ˌsɪs.təm/

Definition

The penal system refers to the set of legal and institutional frameworks that govern the prevention and punishment of crimes.

Examples

The penal system aims to deter crime while rehabilitating offenders.
A reform of the penal system was proposed to reduce overcrowding in prisons.
Many debate the effectiveness of the current penal system in terms of reducing recidivism rates.

Meaning

It encompasses the processes by which individuals who commit crimes are apprehended, prosecuted, and penalized, including imprisonment and rehabilitation.