impunity

im·pu·ni·ty

noun \im-ˈpyü-nə-tē\

Definition of IMPUNITY

: exemption or freedom from punishment, harm, or loss <laws were flouted with impunity>

Examples of IMPUNITY

1. <she mistakenly believed that she could insult people with impunity>

Origin of IMPUNITY

Middle French or Latin; Middle French impunité, from Latin impunitat-, impunitas, from impune without punishment, from in- + poena punishment — more at pain

First Known Use: 1532

Related to IMPUNITY

Synonyms: exemption, immunity

Related Words: aegis (also egis), armor, cover, defense, guard, protection, safeguard, safety, security, shield; buffer, bumper, screen; absolution, absolving, dispensation, forgiveness

Near Antonyms: exposure, liability, openness, susceptibility, susceptibleness, vulnerability

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Rhymes with IMPUNITY

community, disunity, immunity