In a way that shows no compassion, pity, or forgiveness; treated harshly without concern for suffering.
From Middle English 'merciles' (from Old French 'mercies,' from Latin 'merces' meaning reward), plus '-ly.' Literally means without mercy or pity.
Athletes get described as 'mercilessly' dominant—it's code for 'they showed no weakness, no letup, no humanity.' It's oddly used as a compliment in sports, like brutality is somehow admirable when you're winning!
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