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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.

In the latest week ended on Wednesday, however, these customer holdings rose by $5 billion, indicating at least a respite in foreign official sales.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

This week’s sharp rebound in U.S. stocks is offering some welcome respite from the relentless selling that has rocked global markets over the past month.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 1, 2026

And even when I’ve been lucky enough to experience a respite from my illness, I’ve typically had to be on maintenance therapy to keep it in check.

From Slate • Mar. 29, 2026

She also said that more should be done to help families regarding respite, in rural areas such as County Fermanagh and County Tyrone.

From BBC • Mar. 27, 2026

During all of her girlhood the only respite Nel had had from her stem and undemonstrative parents was Sula.

From "Sula" by Toni Morrison

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.