lenity

[ len-i-tee ]

noun

, plural len·i·ties.

1. the quality or state of being mild or gentle, as toward others.
2. a lenient act.

lenity

/ ˈlɛnɪtɪ /

noun

1. the state or quality of being lenient

Word History and Origins

Origin of lenity¹

From the Latin word lēnītās, dating back to 1540–50. See lenis, -ty ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of lenity¹

C16: from Latin lēnitās gentleness, from lēnis soft

Example Sentences

The mistake of the military authorities in regard to the New York riot, was lenity.

From Project Gutenberg

Poaching, John Carter—is—is a sin of which too many are guilty, owing to the lenity of our most excellent laws.

From Project Gutenberg

Your indulgence, your lenity shall take place of every hardship, and leave me nothing but filial affection!'

From Project Gutenberg

With this vast lightening of spirit came, not only gratitude, but a sense of lenity toward Governor Abbott.

From Project Gutenberg

The very absence of all claim to mitigation, makes it impossible to mistake the motive to lenity in his case.

From Project Gutenberg