Caning Definition and Legal Meaning

On this page, you'll find the legal definition and meaning of Caning, written in plain English, along with examples of how it is used.

What is Caning?

(n) Canning is the corporal punishment practiced in certain countries where the convicted person is punished by lashing with cane sticks. These type of punishment is adopted in countries where moral or religious based punishment is followed

History and Meaning of Caning

Caning is a form of corporal punishment that involves striking an individual with a cane stick. The practice has a long history and was used as a form of judicial punishment in many countries, including Britain and its colonies. In modern times, caning has been adopted as a legal penalty by certain countries where moral or religious-based punishment is followed. Caning is typically used to punish crimes such as vandalism, theft, and drug trafficking.

Examples of Caning

In Singapore, caning, along with imprisonment, is a mandatory punishment for male citizens who commit certain offenses, including rape and drug trafficking.
In Indonesia, caning is a legal punishment for a range of offenses, including adultery, gambling, and homosexuality.
In Malaysia, caning is used as a punishment for various crimes, including immigration offenses, theft, and rioting.
In Brunei, caning is a legal penalty for a range of offenses, including theft, adultery, and consumption of alcohol.
Caning has also been a controversial punishment in some schools, with reports of students being caned for disciplinary reasons.

Legal Terms Similar to Caning

Whipping: Similar to caning, whipping involves striking an individual with a whip, typically as a form of corporal punishment.
Flogging: Flogging is another form of corporal punishment that involves striking an individual with a whip or lash.
Capital punishment: Capital punishment refers to the legal practice of executing an individual for committing certain crimes, often considered the most severe form of legal punishment.