multa

fine; penalty

noun MOOL-tah Less Common

Origin: From Latin multa (fine, penalty).

Usage Note

Multa is the standard word for a monetary penalty imposed by an authority (multa de tráfico = 'traffic fine'). The related verb is multar ('to fine someone'). It differs from sanción, which is broader and can include non-monetary penalties. Fines in Spain are often described by amount: una multa de 200 euros.

Examples

"Le pusieron una multa por aparcar en doble fila."

Natural Translation

He was fined for double parking.

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