life sentence

noun

plural life sentences
: a sentence of imprisonment for the remainder of a convicted person's life when there is no possibility of parole or for a minimum number of years under applicable law until the convicted person becomes eligible for and is granted parole

Examples of life sentence in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Sean Gardner, a once leading youth gymnastics coach, will be behind bars for what amounts to a life sentence, yet the legal fallout likely will continue for years. — Steve Henson, Los Angeles Times, 15 Oct. 2026 Kohberger was then sentenced to four consecutive life sentences with no possibility of parole. — Sally Krutzig, Idaho Statesman, 14 Oct. 2026 Another three gang members were handed life sentences, while 55 more were given prison terms ranging from 24 years to three years and three months, the court said. — CBS News, 13 Oct. 2026 World’s Most Evil Prisoners takes a look at offenders doing life sentences, who go on to torture, kidnap and even kill while inside. — Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 12 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for life sentence

Word History

First Known Use

1817, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of life sentence was in 1817

Rhymes for life sentence

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Browse Nearby Words

life scout
life sentence
life-size
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Cite this Entry

“Life sentence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/life%20sentence. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Legal Definition

life sentence

see also:
sentence
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