Mercy (noun)

1. Compassion or forgiveness shown towards someone whom it is within one's power to punish or harm.
2. A disposition to be kind and forgiving.
3. Relief from distress.
4. Refraining from harming or punishing an enemy or opponent.

Origin:

Middle english: from old french merci, from latin merced- "reward", from the verb mereri "deserve".

Examples:

1. He showed mercy to the prisoner.
2. She showed mercy to the enemy.
3. He begged for mercy.
4. She asked for mercy.
5. The judge showed mercy.