Definition

A type of support in a church seat that allows a person to lean while standing, or a small dagger used in medieval times to deliver a quick death to a wounded knight.

Example

The church's ornate stalls featured beautifully carved misericords for the comfort of worshippers.

Conversation

Did you notice that old church we passed earlier?

Yeah, it looked really interesting!

I heard they have a misericord inside that’s quite unique.

That sounds cool! I'd love to check it out sometime.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Misericord** → It is formed from "misericordia" (from Latin, meaning mercy or compassion) and "-cord" (from Latin "cor", meaning heart). The word "misericord" refers to a place or state of mercy, often associated with compassion from the heart.

Memory Tip

Think of 'mercy' ('misericordia') coming from the 'heart' ('cor') — that's why a misericord is a place of compassion.

Visually Confused Words