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noun

clemence

KLEH-muhns

Clemence (noun) means an older word for clemency — mercy or leniency shown by someone in power. Example: “The king was praised for his clemence toward the defeated rebels.”

noun
1
An older word for clemency — mercy or leniency shown by someone in power.
"The king was praised for his clemence toward the defeated rebels."

How to use clemence

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishAn old-fashioned word for mercy or leniency, now mostly replaced by "clemency."

Easily confused with

Word forms

Clemences plural

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The king was praised for his _____ toward the defeated rebels.

Etymology

From Old French clemence, from Latin clementia — the same root that gave English "clemency," which eventually replaced it in common use.

Origin: Latin

Rhymes for clemence

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Frequently asked questions

What does “clemence” mean?

The word “clemence” means an older word for clemency — mercy or leniency shown by someone in power. In plain terms, an old-fashioned word for mercy or leniency, now mostly replaced by "clemency.".

How do you pronounce “clemence”?

“Clemence” is pronounced KLEH-muhns (/ˈklɛməns/ in IPA).

How do you use “clemence” in a sentence?

Here is “clemence” used in a sentence: “The king was praised for his clemence toward the defeated rebels.”

What part of speech is “clemence”?

“Clemence” is a noun.

Where does the word “clemence” come from?

The word “clemence” comes from Latin. From Old French clemence, from Latin clementia — the same root that gave English "clemency," which eventually replaced it in common use.

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial