misericord

noun4

1. •
   A ledge, sometimes ornately carved, attached to a folding church seat to provide support for a person standing for long periods; a subsellium.

   • Misericords are a very humble form of medieval art and it is unlikely that the most distinguished carvers of any period were employed in making them, except, perhaps, during their apprentice years. — 1969
2. •
   A medieval dagger, used for the mercy stroke to a wounded foe.
3. •
   Relaxation of monastic rules.
4. •
   The room in a monastery for monks granted such relaxation.