Crossword Genius

Penal; retaliatory (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

punitive

<span class="explanation-format__ClueExplanation">I believe this clue is a double definition.<br/ ><br/ >'<span class="explanation-format__original">penal</span>' is the first definition.<br/ ><span class="explanation-format__explanation">(similar in meaning)</span><br/ ><br/ >'<span class="explanation-format__original">retaliatory</span>' is the second definition.<br/ ><span class="explanation-format__explanation">(thesaurus)</span><br/ ><br/ ></span>

(Other definitions for punitive that I've seen before include "Inflicting penalties" , "As deterrent, retribution" , "Penal; crippling" , "Severe and retaliatory" , "intended to teach a lesson" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.