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Definition of merciful

merciful

/ˈmɜːr.sɪ.fəl/
mer · ci · ful
Adverb:mercifully
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merciful Lexical Profile

merciful Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Showing or exercising compassion, leniency, and forgiveness toward someone whom it is within one's power to punish or harm.

Example

"The judge was merciful and sentenced the first-time offender to community service rather than prison."

2

Bringing welcome relief from pain, distress, or an unpleasant situation.

Example

"After hours of walking in the scorching desert heat, the cool evening breeze came as a merciful relief."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for merciful

• Nearby Words

merchandising
merchant
merchantman
merciful
mercifully
mercifulness
merciless

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English from the noun 'mercy' (borrowed from Old French 'merci', ultimately from Latin 'merces' meaning 'reward, wages, or favor') and the Old English suffix '-ful'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Merciful. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/merciful
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