lenity

noun

len·​i·​ty ˈle-nə-tē 

: the quality or state of being lenient : clemency

Synonyms of lenity

• mercy
• mercifulness
• leniency
• clemency

Examples of lenity in a Sentence

a social critic who argues that judicial lenity is chiefly to blame for the increased criminality that plagues us

Recent Examples on the Web

The majority’s treatment of the rule of lenity also strikes a slightly sour note. — The Insider, Forbes, 15 Apr. 2021

If the rule of lenity applies here, then Butler should not be charged with a hate crime. — Mark Joseph Stern, Slate Magazine, 25 Apr. 2017

Word History

First Known Use

1548, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for lenity

• amenity
• obscenity
• serenity

Kids Definition

lenity

noun

len·​i·​ty ˈlen-ət-ē 

: leniency