Dictionary.com
definitions
  • synonyms

extenuating circumstance

See more synonyms for extenuating circumstance on Thesaurus.com
noun Law.
  1. Usually extenuating circumstances. a circumstance that renders conduct less serious and thereby serves to reduce the damages to be awarded or the punishment to be imposed.
Show More

Origin of extenuating circumstance

First recorded in 1830–40
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018