/ ˈmɜːsɪfl; NAmE ˈmɜːrs-/ adjective
1.
ready to forgive people and show them kindness
SYN humane :
a merciful God
They asked her to be merciful to the prisoners.
2.
( of an event ) seeming to be lucky, especially because it brings an end to sb's problems or suffering :
Death came as a merciful release.
—see also mercy