Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

reformatory

noun

/ˌriːfɔːrˈmætəri/

Definition

A facility or institution designed to reform or rehabilitate young offenders.

Examples

The teenager was sent to a reformatory for stealing.
Many reformatories emphasize education and vocational training.
After spending time in a reformatory, he returned home with new skills and a positive outlook.

Meaning

Reformatory refers to a place aimed at correcting the behavior of individuals, particularly youth, who have engaged in criminal activities. It focuses on educational and therapeutic approaches rather than punitive measures.