Constitutional
Cruel and Unusual Punishment
/ kroo-ul and yoo-ZHOO-ul PUN-ish-ment /
Definition
Punishment prohibited by the Eighth Amendment.
Used in Context
“Life without parole for a juvenile may constitute cruel and unusual punishment.”
Etymology
Latin: crudelis, crude
Learn a new legal term every day
Lex gives you one legal term daily with flashcards, quizzes, and essays — completely free.
Start Learning Free →