- Main Entry:
- mer·cy
- Pronunciation:
-
\ˈmər-sē\
- Function:
- noun
- Inflected Form(s):
- plural mercies
- Etymology:
- Middle English, from Anglo-French merci, from Medieval Latin merced-, merces, from Latin, price paid, wages, from merc-, merx merchandise
- Date:
- 13th century
1 a: compassion or forbearance shown especially to an offender or to one subject to one's power; also : lenient or compassionate treatment <begged for mercy> b: imprisonment rather than death imposed as penalty for first-degree murder2 a: a blessing that is an act of divine favor or compassion b: a fortunate circumstance <it was a mercy they found her before she froze>3: compassionate treatment of those in distress <works of mercy among the poor>
— mercy adjective
—
at the mercy of : wholly in the power of : with no way to protect oneself against
synonyms mercy,
charity,
clemency,
grace,
leniency mean a disposition to show kindness or compassion.
mercy implies compassion that forbears punishing even when justice demands it
<threw himself on the mercy of the court>.
charity stresses benevolence and goodwill shown in broad understanding and tolerance of others
<show a little charity for the less fortunate>.
clemency implies a mild or merciful disposition in one having the power or duty of punishing
<the judge refused to show clemency>.
grace implies a benign attitude and a willingness to grant favors or make concessions
<by the grace of God>.
leniency implies lack of severity in punishing
<criticized the courts for excessive leniency>.
