n. (pl. ies) 1 compassion or forbearance towards defeated enemies or offenders or as a quality. 2 act of mercy. 3 (attrib.) done out of compassion (mercy killing). 4 thing to be thankful for (small mercies). int. expressing surprise or fear. o at the mercy of 1 in the power of. 2 liable to danger or harm from. have mercy on (or upon) show mercy to. [Latin metres reward, pity]
