penitentiary meaning and definition

PENITENTIARY noun

Definition of penitentiary (noun)

1. a correctional institution for those convicted of major crimes
   • synonyms: pen

PENITENTIARY adjective

Definition of penitentiary (adjective)

1. used for punishment or reform of criminals or wrongdoers
   • "penitentiary institutions"
2. showing or constituting penance
   • "penitential tears"; "wrote a penitential letter apologizing for her hasty words"
   • synonyms: penitential