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Synonyms

punishing

American  
[puhn-i-shing] / ˈpʌn ɪ ʃɪŋ /

adjective

  1. causing or characterized by harsh or injurious treatment; severe; brutal.

    The storm was accompanied by punishing winds.


Other Word Forms

  • nonpunishing adjective
  • self-punishing adjective
  • unpunishing adjective
  • unpunishingly adverb

Etymology

Origin of punishing

1425–75; late Middle English punyesand; punish, -ing 2

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.

It turned out to be nothing but a brief dalliance for the couple, who struggled with the area’s punishing heat.

From MarketWatch

The stock is attempting to stabilize after a punishing four-week slide that saw shares tumble roughly 30% from peak to trough.

From Barron's

The market has been punishing fast-casual restaurants on hints that growth is decelerating.

From Barron's

Roebuck finished with 29 points and was punishing the Wolverines with his strength driving and drawing fouls.

From Los Angeles Times

Plaid Cymru spokesperson for education Cefin Campbell said: "It is extraordinary that our student finance system, rather than supporting our students, is instead punishing them. It is clear that we need a system-wide rethink."

From BBC