1. a person who punishes someone for wrongdoing
2. something that causes suffering or hardship
Usage: informal

Examples

• The strict teacher was known as a punisher of students who misbehaved.
• The judge served as the punisher of those who broke the law.
• That marathon was a real punisher in the summer heat.
• The coach was a tough punisher during training sessions.
• The rocky terrain proved to be a punisher for inexperienced hikers.
• Parents often struggle with being both nurturer and punisher.