PENITENTIARY Meaning and
Definition
-
A penitentiary refers to a secure correctional institution primarily designed for the incarceration and rehabilitation of individuals convicted of serious crimes. It is a facility where convicted criminals are sentenced to serve their punishment for a predetermined period. The term "penitentiary" originated from the idea of penance or remorse associated with incarceration, with the aim of enabling offenders to reflect on their wrongdoing and potentially reform.
Penitentiaries are typically high-security facilities, featuring strict measures to prevent escapes and maintain order. They often house individuals convicted of violent crimes, such as murder, rape, or organized crime. In these institutions, inmates are subject to various forms of confinement, including lockdowns, restricted movement, and limited personal freedoms.
The primary objectives of penitentiaries include punishment, deterrence, and social reintegration. In addition to providing controlled environments for punishment, they often offer programs aimed at rehabilitating offenders. These programs may include educational opportunities, vocational training, counseling, and drug rehabilitation services. The goal is to equip inmates with skills and knowledge that would aid their reintegration into society successfully.
Historically, the concept of penitentiaries emerged during the Enlightenment era in the 18th century, promoting a shift from public corporal punishments to more humane and private systems of incarceration. This shift aimed to become an alternative to capital punishment and to promote reform by encouraging reflection on the part of the offender. Today, penitentiaries play a crucial role in the criminal justice system, serving as places of confinement and engaging in efforts to reduce recidivism rates by addressing the underlying causes of criminal behavior.
-
• A prison or house of correction for training offenders with a view to their reformation; one of the secret offices of the court of Rome.
• Relating to the rules and measures of penance.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for PENITENTIARY *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for PENITENTIARY
Etymology of PENITENTIARY
The word "penitentiary" originates from Latin, specifically from the Late Latin word "paenitentiarium". It is derived from the Latin word "paenitere", which means "to repent" or "to feel regret". Initially, in the early Christian church, a "paenitentia" referred to a period of public penance or remorse for committing a sin. Later on, the term evolved to encompass a place set aside for punishment, penance, and reform of criminals.
Similar spelling words for PENITENTIARY
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
