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misericord

noun mi·ser·i·cord \ mə-ˈzer-ə-ˌkȯrd , -ˈser- \
variants: or less commonly misericorde

Definition of misericord

: a small projection on the bottom of a hinged church seat that gives support to a standing worshipper when the seat is turned up

Origin and Etymology of misericord

Medieval Latin misericordia seat in church, from Latin, mercy, from misericord-, misericors merciful, from misereri + cord-, cor heart — more at heart

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