Capital punishment

Definition

Capital punishment is the legally authorized killing of someone as punishment for a crime, typically reserved for particularly serious crimes such as murder or treason. It represents the most severe form of legal penalty and is a subject of significant legal and ethical debate.

Related terms

Death Penalty: The imposition of death upon a person by judicial process as a punishment for an offense.

Life Imprisonment: A sentence of imprisonment for life, used as an alternative to capital punishment in many jurisdictions.

Judicial Review: The power of courts to assess whether a law, policy, or executive action is in accord with the constitution or legislation