Definition

Noun: - A penal institution, historically used, for the confinement and reform of individuals convicted of minor offenses or considered idle or disorderly. Its stated purpose was correction and rehabilitation through discipline and labor, rather than solely punishment.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • In the 18th century, a vagrant might be sent to a house of correction for idle behavior.
  • The local house of correction was intended to teach inmates a trade.
  • Historically, the distinction between a prison and a house of correction was often blurred.

Advanced Usage

• The term is primarily historical and is rarely used to describe modern penal institutions. In contemporary contexts, it might be used metaphorically or critically.
  • His strict boarding school felt like a house of correction. (Metaphorical use implying severe discipline)
  • The new policy turned the community center into a virtual house of correction for young people. (Critical use suggesting excessive control)

Variants and Related Words

• Bridewell: (noun, historical) A term often used synonymously for a house of correction in England, named after the London palace that was converted into one.
• Workhouse: (noun, historical) An institution where the poor were housed and given work. While similar, workhouses were for paupers, whereas houses of correction were for petty offenders, though their functions sometimes overlapped.
• Penitentiary: (noun) A prison for serious crimes. The concept of the penitentiary evolved from ideas associated with correction and penitence.

Synonyms

• Reformatory
• Penal institution (historical context)
• Detention center (for minor offenses)

Related Phrases

• To be sent to a house of correction: The historical phrase for being committed to such an institution.
  • The judge ordered the pickpocket to be sent to the house of correction for six months.

Noun

1. (formerly) a jail or other place of detention for persons convicted of minor offences