WorldJuly 13, 2026

clemency

/ˈklɛmənsi/

Definition

A formal act of mercy or leniency, specifically the reduction of a sentence or the granting of a pardon by an authority.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word 'clementia,' meaning mildness, gentleness, or mercy. It entered Middle English through Old French as a term denoting a disposition to be forgiving or refrain from severity.

In the news

In the article, the Ethiopian government successfully negotiated for clemency to save its citizens from potential execution in Saudi prisons. This effort represents a shift from capital punishment toward humanitarian reprieve through diplomatic channels.

Nearly 2,000 Ethiopians escape Saudi prisons through royal amnesty as executions continue

Read the full article ↗

Business Insider Africa

Related words

Learn a word like this every day

Meet one new word every morning.

Newspoken pulls one carefully chosen word from the day’s news — with a clear definition, context, and light review that makes it stick. Get it on your phone.

Not for marketing. One email on launch day.