What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
calaboose
Example
The drunk driver was taken to the calaboose to sober up. [calaboose: noun]
Example
They kept the suspect in the calaboose until his court hearing. [calaboose: noun]
penitentiary
Example
He was sentenced to ten years in the penitentiary for his crimes. [penitentiary: noun]
Example
The notorious criminal was transferred to a maximum-security penitentiary. [penitentiary: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Penitentiary is more commonly used than calaboose in everyday language. Penitentiary is the standard term for correctional facilities, while calaboose is less common and may be more regionally specific or used in informal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between calaboose and penitentiary?
While calaboose is associated with a more casual and informal tone, penitentiary is the formal term used in legal and official contexts.
