clemency

American  

[klem-uhn-see] / ˈklɛm ən si /

noun

plural

clemencies

1. the quality of being clement; disposition to show forbearance, compassion, or forgiveness in judging or punishing; leniency; mercy.

   Synonyms:

   mercifulness, gentleness, forgivingness

   Antonyms:

   harshness

2. an act or deed showing mercy or leniency.

3. (of the weather) mildness or temperateness.

   Antonyms:

   severity

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clemency British  

/ ˈklɛmənsɪ /

noun

1. mercy or leniency

2. mildness, esp of the weather

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Usage

what does clemency mean? Clemency is mercy or the quality of being lenient.Clemency is most commonly used in a legal context for situations in which a prisoner is officially pardoned or has their sentence shortened.Example: The governor has granted her clemency, meaning she will be released early.

Other Word Forms

• overclemency noun

Etymology

Origin of clemency

1375–1425; late Middle English (< Anglo-French ) < Latin clēmentia. See clement, -cy

Example Sentences

Milton said that relationship played no role in his trial or clemency.

From The Wall Street Journal

“That is not unusual in complex cases involving ongoing appeals, potential clemency review, and administrative proceedings.”

From Los Angeles Times

Maxwell invoked her Fifth Amendment rights and vowed to speak only if granted clemency, meaning either a commuted sentence or a presidential pardon.

From Salon

Martin remains the Justice Department’s pardon attorney, reviewing clemency applications and making recommendations to the president.

From The Wall Street Journal

The president has issued a number of clemencies during the first year of his second term, many for defendants in criminal cases once touted by federal prosecutors.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• compassion
• indulgence
• leniency
• mercy