clemency
UK: /ˈklɛmənsi/ | US: /ˈklɛmənsi/
n. mercy or leniency, especially in the context of punishment or judgment
n. mildness, especially of weather
clemency = clemen<gentle> + cy<noun suffix>
- clemen (from Latin clemens, meaning "gentle, calm, mild")
- cy (noun-forming suffix indicating state or quality, from Latin -tia)
Etymology Origin:
The word "clemency" traces back to the Latin clementia, derived from clemens (gentle, merciful). It originally described mild weather or temperament, later extending to judicial leniency. The suffix -cy (via Old French -cie) solidifies it as a noun denoting a state of mercy or mildness. The evolution reflects a metaphorical shift from physical gentleness (e.g., climate) to abstract forgiveness.
The judge showed clemency by reducing the prisoner’s sentence.
The clemency of the spring breeze made the hike enjoyable.
Advocates appealed for clemency on behalf of the condemned man.
Her clemency toward the mistake surprised everyone.
The king’s clemency earned him the people’s loyalty.