extenuation

Definition

The action of extenuating; extenuated condition.

Etymology

An adaptation of extenuātiōn-, the oblique stem of the Latin extenuātiō (“a thinning or diminishing”, “rarefaction”; rhetoric “a lessening”, “diminution”, “extenuation”), noun of action from extenuō (“I thin, reduce, or diminish”). Equivalent to extenuate + -ion. Compare the French exténuation.

Example Sentences

• "This mightily helpeth the extenuation of members."
• "A yong man…had an extenuation for want of nourishment in his Limbs."
• "Galen commends tepid Baths for…curing all Extenuations."