Dictionary
dis•patch
Pronunciation: (di-spach'), [key]—
v.t.
1. to send off or away with speed, as a messenger, telegram, body of troops, etc.
2. to dismiss (a person), as after an audience.
3. to put to death; kill:
The spy was promptly dispatched.
4. to transact or dispose of (a matter) promptly or speedily.
—
v.i.
Archaic.to hasten; be quick.
—
n.
1. the sending off of a messenger, letter, etc., to a destination.
2. the act of putting to death; killing; execution.
3. prompt or speedy transaction, as of business.
4. expeditious performance; promptness or speed:
Proceed with all possible dispatch.
5. Com.
a. a method of effecting a speedy delivery of goods, money, etc.
b. a conveyance or organization for the expeditious transmission of goods, money, etc.
6. a written message sent with speed.
7. an official communication sent by special messenger.
8. Journalism.a news story transmitted to a newspaper, wire service, or the like, by one of its reporters, or by a wire service to a newspaper or other news agency.
9. mentioned in dispatches, Brit.honored by being named in official military reports for special bravery or acts of service.
Also,despatch.Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Copyright © 1997, by Random House, Inc., on Infoplease.
