penitentiary
word
Definition
A penitentiary is a large, secure prison where people are kept as punishment for serious crimes. The word is formal and often found in legal or official contexts.
Usage & Nuances
'Penitentiary' is formal and less common in casual speech; 'prison' or 'jail' are used more often in everyday English. It usually refers to state or federal prisons for serious crimes, not short-term detention centers. The term also carries historical and legal connotations.
Example Sentences
His brother works as a guard at the penitentiary.
basic
After years in the penitentiary, he was finally released on parole.
natural
Visitors must follow strict rules when entering the penitentiary.
natural
Rumor has it the old penitentiary is haunted.
natural
The judge sent him to the penitentiary for ten years.
basic
There is a large penitentiary outside the city.
basic