clemency
Clemency (noun) means Mercy or leniency shown toward someone who could rightfully be punished. Example: “The judge showed clemency and reduced his sentence.”
How to Use Clemency
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishBeing merciful, especially by softening or cancelling a punishment someone deserved.
Word Forms
clemencies plural
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
The judge showed _____ and reduced his sentence.
Etymology
From Latin clementia, "mildness, mercy," related to clemens ("merciful").
Synonyms
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Related Words
Rhymes for clemency
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “clemency” mean?
The word “clemency” means mercy or leniency shown toward someone who could rightfully be punished. In plain terms, being merciful, especially by softening or cancelling a punishment someone deserved.
How do you pronounce “clemency”?
“Clemency” is pronounced KLEH-muhn-see (/ˈklɛ.mən(t).si/ in IPA).
How do you use “clemency” in a sentence?
Here is “clemency” used in a sentence: “The judge showed clemency and reduced his sentence.”
What is the opposite of “clemency”?
The opposite of “clemency” — its antonyms — is cruelty.
What part of speech is “clemency”?
“Clemency” is a noun.
Where does the word “clemency” come from?
The word “clemency” comes from Latin. From Latin clementia, "mildness, mercy," related to clemens ("merciful").
How many meanings does “clemency” have?
“Clemency” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: mercy or leniency shown toward someone who could rightfully be punished.