transcription, транскрипция: [ ˈmər-sē ]
noun
( plural mercies )
Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French merci, from Medieval Latin merced-, merces, from Latin, price paid, wages, from merc-, merx merchandise
Date: 13th century
1.
a. : compassion or forbearance shown especially to an offender or to one subject to one's power ; also : lenient or compassionate treatment
begged for mercy
b. : imprisonment rather than death imposed as penalty for first-degree murder
2.
a. : a blessing that is an act of divine favor or compassion
b. : a fortunate circumstance
it was a mercy they found her before she froze
3. : compassionate treatment of those in distress
works of mercy among the poor
• mercy adjective
•
- at the mercy of
Synonyms:
mercy , charity , clemency , grace , leniency mean a disposition to show kindness or compassion. mercy implies compassion that forbears punishing even when justice demands it
threw himself on the mercy of the court
charity stresses benevolence and goodwill shown in broad understanding and tolerance of others
show a little charity for the less fortunate
clemency implies a mild or merciful disposition in one having the power or duty of punishing
the judge refused to show clemency
grace implies a benign attitude and a willingness to grant favors or make concessions
by the grace of God
leniency implies lack of severity in punishing
criticized the courts for excessive leniency