1. a small dagger used in medieval times to deliver a mercy stroke to a wounded knight
Usage: historical
2. a hinged seat in a choir stall that can be turned up to provide support while standing
Usage: ecclesiastical
3. mercy or compassion, especially as shown by a superior to an inferior
Usage: archaic

Examples

• The knight carried a misericorde at his side for emergencies on the battlefield.
• Medieval warriors used the misericorde to end the suffering of mortally wounded opponents.
• The choir members appreciated the misericorde seats during the long service.
• Each wooden stall in the cathedral was equipped with a carved misericorde.
• The defeated lord begged for misericorde from his conqueror.
• In medieval literature, knights often showed misericorde to their enemies.
• The ornate misericorde provided relief during hours of standing prayer.