multa

fine; penalty

noun MOOL-tah Rare

Origin: Latin multa (penalty)

Usage Note

Multa specifically refers to a monetary fine imposed by authorities — a traffic ticket (una multa per eccesso di velocità) or any administrative penalty. The verb is multare ('to fine'). Do not confuse with pena (punishment in a broader or criminal sense). The plural is regular: multe.

Examples

"Ho preso una multa per divieto di sosta."

Natural Translation

I got a fine for a no-parking violation.

Literal Translation

I have taken a fine for prohibition of parking.

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