Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary - leniency

 noun  (plural -cies)  Date: 1753  1. the quality or state of being lenient  2. a lenient disposition or practice  Synonyms: see mercy LENIENT  adjective  Etymology: Latin ~-, leniens, present participle of lenire to soften, soothe, from lenis soft, mild; probably akin to Lithuanian lenas tranquil — more at let  Date: 1652  1. exerting a soothing or easing influence ; relieving pain or stress  2. of mild and tolerant disposition; especially indulgent  • ~ly adverb