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.

Located between the Sahara tent and the Do Lab, the Bunker is a gigantic subterranean cavern with room for 300 or so people — a dark and cool respite from the blazing Indio sun.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2026

Scottish Labour's Jackie Baillie said families must be fully supported and respite provision should be maintained.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026

Families of severely disabled children fear a respite centre they rely on could face closure.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026

Miles of landscaped running and biking trails offer a rare respite from the urban churn beyond the gates.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

I almost forgot the heavy worries on my mind—for that brief respite.

From "The Autobiography of Malcolm X" by Alex Malcolm X;Hailey

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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