1. (

• penitentiary ,
• pen ,

) a correctional institution for those convicted of major crimes ;

1. (

• penitentiary

) used for punishment or reform of criminals or wrongdoers; "penitentiary institutions" ;

2. (

• penitential ,
• penitentiary

) showing or constituting penance; "penitential tears"; "wrote a penitential letter apologizing for her hasty words" ;