lenity

[ len-i-tee ]

noun

, plural len·i·ties.

1. the quality or state of being mild or gentle, as toward others.
2. a lenient act.

lenity

/ ˈlɛnɪtɪ /

noun

1. the state or quality of being lenient

Word History and Origins

Origin of lenity¹

From the Latin word lēnītās, dating back to 1540–50. See lenis, -ty ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of lenity¹

C16: from Latin lēnitās gentleness, from lēnis soft

Example Sentences

The better approach, he wrote, would be to apply the “rule of lenity,” under which ambiguous laws are construed to favor the defendant.

From New York Times

But he said he would rule for Wooden by applying the “rule of lenity.”

From Washington Post

The court cited the “rule of lenity,” saying that in the case of ambiguous wording or legislative intent that could not be determined, the defendant is entitled to the “benefit of any rational doubt.”

From Washington Times

Many experts in criminal law have disputed the notion that he was treated differently in any legally meaningful sense than countless other people under investigation who lack presidential ties and receive no special lenity.

From New York Times

Dershowitz further suggested that the "rule of lenity," or the legal doctrine that ambiguities should be resolved in favor of defendants, also counseled towards acquitting the president.

From Fox News