Reformatory

usgb/rɪˈfɔːrmətɔːri/
noun

A place where young people who have broken the law are sent to learn how to behave better.

After stealing a car, the young man was sent to a reformatory.
Visual representation of "reformatory" - A place where young people who have broken the law are sent to learn how to behave better.

Often appears as...

  • juvenile reformatory
  • state reformatory
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "reformatory"
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Juvenile Context

Used specifically for institutions for minors, not adults.

Illustration for Juvenile Context
Her brother was sent to a reformatory after repeated truancy.
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Behavior Change

Focus is on altering behavior, not just punishment.

Illustration for Behavior Change
The reformatory aims to guide its residents towards better life choices.
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Not a Prison

It's distinct from prisons due to its rehabilitative intention.

Illustration for Not a Prison
He was too young for jail, so the court recommended a reformatory.
Visual representation of the word "Reformatory"

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