Respite

Pronunciation

• RP IPA: /ˈɹɛˌspaɪt/, IPA: /ˈɹɛspɪt/
• GenAm IPA: /ˈɹɛspɪt/

Origin

From Anglo-Norman and Old French respit ("rest"), from Latin respectus. Doublet of respect.

Full definition of respite

Noun

1. A brief interval of rest or relief.
• DenhamSome pause and respite only I require.
• ShakespeareI crave but four day's respite.
• 1918, W. B. Maxwell, The Mirror and the Lamp Chapter 10, It was a joy to snatch some brief respite, and find himself in the rectory drawing–room. Listening here was as pleasant as talking; just to watch was pleasant. The young priests who lived here wore cassocks and birettas; their faces were fine and mild, yet really strong, like the rector's face; and in their intercourse with him and his wife they seemed to be brothers.
• 2013 May 23, Sarah Lyall, "British Leader’s Liberal Turn Sets Off a Rebellion in His Party," New York Times (retrieved 29 May 2013)Mr. Cameron had a respite Thursday from the negative chatter swirling around him when he appeared outside 10 Downing Street to denounce the murder a day before of a British soldier on a London street.
2. (legal) A reprieve, especially from a sentence of death.
3. (legal) The delay of appearance at court granted to a jury beyond the proper term.

Verb

1. (transitive) To delay or postpone.