lenients
|lee-ni-ent|
/ˈliːniənts/
(lenient)
gentle tolerance
Etymology
'lenient' originates from Latin, specifically from the adjective 'lenis' meaning 'soft' or 'mild', and from the verb-forming root 'lenire' meaning 'to soften'.
'lenient' passed into English via Old French/Medieval French (e.g. French 'lénient') and Middle English forms, eventually becoming the modern English word 'lenient'.
Initially it meant 'soft' or 'mild' (in disposition or character); over time it evolved to mean 'merciful, tolerant, or not strict' in judgment or punishment.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
plural form of 'lenient' used as a noun: people who are lenient (tolerant, permissive, or merciful).
The lenients on the committee argued against strict penalties for first-time offenders.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/10/06 09:15