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.

The city and county opened two smoke respite shelters in the immediate area so that people could breath cleaner air.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 30, 2026

Storms brought some respite overnight, particularly in France after several days of temperatures close to 40C.

From Barron's • Jun. 28, 2026

Dunk and Egg’s odd couple adventures provide six too-brief episodes of respite and hope at a time when both are in short supply.

From Salon • Jun. 20, 2026

“This may provide a welcome respite to the market and an opportunity to replenish depleted inventories, or to build new strategic reserves, as countries review their energy strategies and policies in response to the crisis.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 17, 2026

The only respite is lunch, where Finn has his two best friends, Ralph and Dylan.

From "Every Day" by David Levithan

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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