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punitive damages

Definitions of punitive damages
  1. noun
    (law) compensation in excess of actual damages (a form of punishment awarded in cases of malicious or willful misconduct)
    synonyms: exemplary damages, smart money
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    types:
    double damages
    twice the amount that a court would normally find the injured party entitled to
    treble damages
    three times the amount that a court would normally find the injured party entitled to
    type of:
    amends, damages, indemnification, indemnity, redress, restitution
    a sum of money paid in compensation for loss or injury
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