- present tense form of punish (3rd person singular).
punishes
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Open always walks a tightrope between presenting a difficult test—one that rewards good shots and appropriately punishes bad ones—and creating conditions that veer into the absurd.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 18, 2026
"It punishes the wrong people and ignores real avoidance," the report stated.
From BBC ● May 15, 2026
Depriving prisoners of communication with the outside world also punishes their families.
From Barron's ● May 8, 2026
“It reflects a legitimate and important state interest in protecting people from harassment and threats. But at the same time, this bill punishes the publication of information.”
From Los Angeles Times ● May 4, 2026
The walk home is a steep one, and I wonder if it’s yet another way she punishes herself.
From "Every Day" by David Levithan
