WordWeb Online

1. Impose a penalty on; inflict punishment on
   "we had to punish the dog for soiling the floor again";
   - penalize, penalise [Brit], sanction
    
2. Treat or be treated in a bad, harsh or unfair way; be subject to a bad outcome or be beaten
   "Are states being punished for their successful efforts in attracting business?"

Derived forms: punishing, punishes, punished

Encyclopedia: Punish, Honey