Definitions

respite

[res-pit] / ˈrɛs pɪt /

NOUN

pause, suspension in activity

Synonyms

STRONGEST

breather breathing space downtime hiatus interruption layoff letup lull recess relaxation relief reprieve truce

STRONG

acquittal adjournment break breath cessation deadlock deferment delay deliverance discharge ease exculpation five forgiveness halt immunity intermission interregnum interval leisure moratorium pardon postponement protraction release rest stay stop ten time

WEAK

coffee break time out

Antonyms

STRONGEST

continuation

STRONG

advance beginning blame censure commencement employment go hold punishment sentence start

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

U.S. stocks are back and fully embracing the artificial intelligence trade, following a brief respite triggered by faster inflation prospects and rising Treasury bond yields.

From Barron's • Jun. 9, 2026

Her hope is the state can provide solar panels to bring some respite to her residents, particularly the most vulnerable.

From BBC • May 22, 2026

The mosque eventually built a small shed for him as a place for respite from the heat.

From Los Angeles Times • May 22, 2026

Under the planned tax credit in Connecticut, caregivers can receive up to $2,000 a year for expenditures for home modifications, necessary medical equipment and services like home health aides, adult day care and respite care.

From MarketWatch • May 20, 2026

We read he’s building himself an actual castle with spires and a moat near Brussels, to provide a respite, I guess, from his villas in Paris and Spain and Italy.

From "The Poisonwood Bible" by Barbara Kingsolver

Vocabulary lists containing respite

"The Raven" by Edgar Allan Poe

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List 4

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"The Raven"

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