Dictionary
res•pite
Pronunciation: (res'pit), [key]
—n., v., -pit•ed, -pit•ing.
—
n.
1. a delay or cessation for a time, esp. of anything distressing or trying; an interval of relief:
to toil without respite.
2. temporary suspension of the execution of a person condemned to death; reprieve.
—
v.t.
1. to relieve temporarily, esp. from anything distressing or trying; give an interval of relief from.
2. to grant delay in the carrying out of (a punishment, obligation, etc.).
Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Copyright © 1997, by Random House, Inc., on Infoplease.