Dictionary definition · respite
noun
- a (temporary) relief from harm or discomfort
- a pause from doing something (as work)"we took a 10-minute break"
- an interruption in the intensity or amount of something
- a pause for relaxation"people actually accomplish more when they take time for short rests"
- the act of reprieving; postponing or remitting punishment
verb
- postpone the punishment of a convicted criminal, such as an execution
Source: Open English WordNet (CC BY 4.0).