Crossword Genius

Penal; retaliatory (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

punitive

I believe this clue is a double definition.

'penal' is the first definition.
(similar in meaning)

'retaliatory' is the second definition.
(thesaurus)

(Other definitions for punitive that I've seen before include "Inflicting penalties" , "As deterrent, retribution" , "Penal; crippling" , "Severe and retaliatory" , "intended to teach a lesson" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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