adj.
Pronunciation: ' l ē -n ē - ə nt, -ny ə nt
Function: adjective
Etymology: Latin lenient-, leniens, present participle of lenire to soften, soothe, from lenis soft, mild; probably akin to Lithuanian l ė nas tranquil ― more at LET
Date: 1652
1 : exerting a soothing or easing influence : relieving pain or stress
2 : of mild and tolerant disposition especially : INDULGENT
– le · nient · ly adverb