[le.nient] adj [L lenient-, leniens, prp. of lenire to soften, soothe, fr. lenis soft, mild; prob. akin to Lith lenas tranquil--more at let] (1652) 1: exerting a soothing or easing influence: relieving pain or stress
2: of mild and tolerant disposition; esp: indulgent -- le.nient.ly adv