penitentiary
noun/ˌpɛnɪˈtɛnʃəri/
Frequency rank: #10,871 most common English word
Meaning
A large prison for people convicted of serious crimes.
Example sentence
After the verdict was read, the judge sentenced him to ten years in the state penitentiary.
Synonyms & related words
Practice this word in the quiz
More words in ranks 10,801–10,900
- nooka small, sheltered corner or recess in a room or outdoor space.
- nutritiouscontaining many of the substances needed for growth and good health.
- overdrivea state of very high activity or effort beyond normal capacity.
- pantTo breathe quickly with short breaths; a leg of a pair of trousers.
- passoverA major Jewish festival commemorating the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt.
- perilousFull of danger or risk.
- polytechnican institution of higher education offering instruction in many technical subjects and applied sciences.
- popularlyin a way that is liked or known by many people; commonly.
- possea group of people summoned to assist in law enforcement or pursue a criminal.
- refrigerationthe process of keeping food or other items cold to preserve them.