clemency

[ klem-uhn-see ]

noun

, plural clem·en·cies.

1. the quality of being clement; disposition to show forbearance, compassion, or forgiveness in judging or punishing; leniency; mercy.

   Synonyms: mercifulness, gentleness, forgivingness

   Antonyms: harshness

2. an act or deed showing mercy or leniency.
3. (of the weather) mildness or temperateness.

   Antonyms: severity

clemency

/ ˈklɛmənsɪ /

noun

1. mercy or leniency
2. mildness, esp of the weather

Other Words From

• over·clemen·cy noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of clemency¹

1375–1425; late Middle English (< Anglo-French ) < Latin clēmentia. See clement, -cy

Word History and Origins

Origin of clemency¹

C15: from Latin clēmentia, from clēmēns gentle

Example Sentences

Harris was sentenced to 15 years in prison in Bedford, N.Y., but was granted clemency in 1993 by Gov. Mario Cuomo.

From The Daily Beast

“Surely those who wish to be seen as a state will act in a statesmanlike way by showing mercy and providing clemency,” she said.

From The Daily Beast

Those who have such views are of course entitled to continue to have them, but the clemency grant has nothing to do with that.

From The Daily Beast

The Justice Department wants lawyers to help non-violent drug offenders get clemency to leave jail.

From The Daily Beast

No less than the New York Times has called for clemency on his behalf, insisting that he has “done his country a great service.”

From The Daily Beast

His mind with all its sternness ever tended to clemency, and his constitutional prudence, or measure, forbade purposeless excess.

From Project Gutenberg

And to procure this her Majesty hath offered as much of her clemency to you, as with honour she might do to her subjects.

From Project Gutenberg

His highness's ministers and chiefs there tendered his submission, and solicited the clemency of the British government.

From Project Gutenberg

When, once more, there was silence, Galaima dropped upon one knee and begged for clemency for himself and friends.

From Project Gutenberg

There was nothing to do but wait upon the clemency—the mercy of Captain Goritz.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• compassion
• indulgence
• leniency
• mercy