Lenient
/ˈliː.ni.ənt/noun
Characterized by a mild or permissive attitude towards others' faults or offenses.
Did you know?The word 'lenient' has connections to the Latin word for 'to alleviate', hinting at a historical tie to mercy and forgiveness in judgment.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
lenis
“soft, mild, gentle”
15th Century
Old French
lenient
“mild, gentle, merciful”
Late 15th Century
English
lenient
“characterized by mercy, not harsh or severe”
Modern English
English
lenient
“showing tolerance or gentleness in judgment or treatment”