clemency

[klem-uhn-see]

noun

plural

clemencies 

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 Word Forms

• overclemency 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

Bush and Bill Clinton and now represents people in clemency cases.

Read more on Salon

The novelist has long been a critic of Algeria's government, which had not responded favourably to France's appeal for clemency.

Read more on BBC

That attorney turned out to be Brittany Barnett, who has had success obtaining clemency for inmates facing life sentences for nonviolent drug-related offenses.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

“It is known that presidents have the power of the pardon and the clemency, which are plenary. And they’re extended at their will.”

Read more on Salon

In a letter last month apologizing for the crime, Djerf said he was ready to die and would not seek clemency.

Read more on Barron's

Related Words

• compassion 
• indulgence 
• leniency 
• mercy 

When To Use

what does clemency mean?

Clemency is mercy or the quality of being lenient.Clemency is most commonly used in a legal context for situations in which a prisoner is officially pardoned or has their sentence shortened.Example: The governor has granted her clemency, meaning she will be released early.