Reformatory/rɪˈfɔːrmətɔːri/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Juvenile Context Used specifically for institutions for minors, not adults. Her brother was sent to a reformatory after repeated truancy. Pro Tip 2/3Behavior Change Focus is on altering behavior, not just punishment. The reformatory aims to guide its residents towards better life choices. Pro Tip 3/3Not a Prison It's distinct from prisons due to its rehabilitative intention. He was too young for jail, so the court recommended a reformatory.