Lenity \Len"i*ty\ (-t[y^]), n. [L. lenitas, fr. lenis soft, mild: cf. OF. lenit['e]. See {Lenient}.] The state or quality of being lenient; mildness of temper or disposition; gentleness of treatment; softness; tenderness; clemency; -- opposed to {severity} and {rigor}. His exceeding lenity disposes us to be somewhat too severe. --Macaulay. Syn: Gentleness; kindness; tenderness; softness; humanity; clemency; mercy. web1913

lenity n : mercifulness as a consequence of being lenient or tolerant [syn: {lenience}, {leniency}, {mildness}] wn