clem

n. [ NL., fr. Gr. klhmati`s brushwood, also (from its long, lithe branches) clematis. fr. klh^ma twig, shoot, fr. kla^n to break off. ] (Bot.) A genus of flowering plants, of many species, mostly climbers, having feathery styles, which greatly enlarge in the fruit; -- called also virgin's bower. [ 1913 Webster ]

n. Clemency. [ Obs. ] Spenser. [ 1913 Webster ]

n.; pl. Clemencies [ L. clementia, fr. clemens mild, calm. ] 1. Disposition to forgive and spare, as offenders; mildness of temper; gentleness; tenderness; mercy. [ 1913 Webster ]

Great clemency and tender zeal toward their subjects. Stowe. [ 1913 Webster ]

They had applied for the royal clemency. Macaulay. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Mildness or softness of the elements; as, the clemency of the season.

Syn. -- Mildness; tenderness; indulgence; lenity; mercy; gentleness; compassion; kindness. [ 1913 Webster ]

a. [ L. clemens; -entis; cf. F. cl&unr_;ment. ] Mild in temper and disposition; merciful; compassionate. Shak.

-- Clem"ent*ly, adv. [1913 Webster]