n. & int.
--n. (pl. -ies)
1. compassion or forbearance shown to enemies or offenders in one's power.
2 the quality of compassion.
3 an act of mercy.
4 (attrib.) administered or performed out of mercy or pity for a suffering person (mercy killing).
5 something to be thankful for (small mercies).
--int. expressing surprise or fear.
Phrases and idioms:
at the mercy of
1. wholly in the power of.
2 liable to danger or harm from. have mercy on (or upon) show mercy to. mercy flight the transporting by air of an injured or sick person from a remote area to a hospital.
Etymology: ME f. OF merci f. L merces -edis reward, in LL pity, thanks