What does the 8th amendment mean Meaning and Definition
What does the 8th amendment mean
Pronunciation
/ˈdʒərbərə/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
The Eighth Amendment to the United States Constitution prohibits the federal government from imposing excessive bail, cruel and unusual punishments, and prohibits the government from imposing fines that are excessive or in the form of punishment.
Etymology
The 8th amendment has its roots in the English Bill of Rights of 1689, which prohibited “cruel or unusual punishments.” The amendment was ratified in 1791 as part of the United States Bill of Rights.
Usage Notes
The 8th amendment is often cited in court cases involving criminal sentencing, and can be used to challenge the constitutionality of a particular punishment.
Cultural References
- The 8th amendment has been referenced in popular culture, including in films and television shows such as “The Simpsons” and “Law & Order.”
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Cruel and unusual punishment” is a phrase often associated with the 8th amendment.
Related Words or Phrases
- Due Process
- Excessive Force
Collocations
- cruel and unusual punishment
- excessive fine
Frequency of Use
The 8th amendment is not often used in everyday conversation, but is frequently cited in legal and academic contexts.
Common Misspellings
- 8th amendmint
- 8th amendmant