Respite (r?sp?t), n. [OF. respit, F. répit, from L. respectus respect, regard, delay, in LL., the deferring of a day. See Respect.] 1. A putting off of that which was appointed; a postponement or delay.
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I crave but four day's respite. Shak.
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2. Temporary intermission of labor, or of any process or operation; interval of rest; pause; delay. “Without more respite.” Chaucer.
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Some pause and respite only I require. Denham.
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3. (Law) (a) Temporary suspension of the execution of a capital offender; reprieve. (b) The delay of appearance at court granted to a jury beyond the proper term.
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Syn. -- Pause; interval; stop; cessation; delay; postponement; stay; reprieve.
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