ˈmə:sɪ n. & int. --n. (pl. -ies) 1
compassion or
forbearance shown to enemies or offenders in one's
power. 2
the quality of compassion. 3 an
act of mercy. 4 (attrib.) administered or performed
out of mercy or
pity for a suffering
person (mercy killing). 5
something to be
thankful for (small mercies). --int. expressing
surprise or
fear. øat the mercy of 1
wholly in the power
of. 2
liable to
danger or
harm from.
have mercy on (or upon)
show mercy
to. mercy flight the transporting by
air of an
injured or sick person from a
remote area to a
hospital. [ME f. OF merci f. L merces -edis
reward, in LL pity, thanks]