the disadvantage or painful consequences of an action or condition
Neglected his health and paid the penalty.
source: WordNet 3.0
(games) a handicap or disadvantage that is imposed on a competitor (or a team) for an infraction of the rules of the game
source: WordNet 3.0
Penal retribution; punishment for crime or offense; the suffering in person or property which is annexed by law or judicial decision to the commission of a crime, offense, or trespass.