Langimage
English

lenience

|le-ni-ence|

C1

/ˈliːniəns/

mercy or tolerance

Etymology
Etymology Information

'lenience' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'lenientia,' where 'lenis' meant 'gentle or mild.'

Historical Evolution

'lenientia' transformed into the French word 'lenience,' and eventually became the modern English word 'lenience' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'gentleness or mildness,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'mercy or tolerance.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the quality of being more merciful or tolerant than expected; clemency.

The judge showed lenience by reducing the sentence.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:42