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ergastolo

life sentence

noun er-GAH-stoh-loh Rare

Origin: From Latin ergastulum (a place of forced labour, workhouse for slaves).

Usage Note

Ergastolo is specifically a life sentence in the Italian penal system. The phrase ergastolo ostativo (restrictive life sentence, colloquially 41-bis) refers to a harsher regime denying parole or family visits, often applied to mafia convicts. It is always masculine: condannato all'ergastolo (sentenced to life).

Examples

"Il giudice ha condannato l'imputato all'ergastolo."

Natural Translation

The judge sentenced the defendant to life imprisonment.

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