What part of speech is penalty?

"Penalty" can be a few different parts of speech depending on how it's used in a sentence:

* Noun: This is the most common usage. A penalty is a punishment for breaking a rule.

* Example: "He received a penalty for parking illegally."

* Adjective: This usage is less common, but it can describe something that is related to or involving punishment.

* Example: "The penalty clause in the contract was very harsh."

Let me know if you have a specific sentence in mind, and I can help you determine the part of speech more accurately!