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.
Related Words
Explore Italian by topic
ItalianNow
5 min read