Definition of: respite

(res′pit) noun
1. Postponement; delay.
2. Temporary intermission of labor or effort; an interval of rest.
3. Law Temporary suspension of the execution of a sentence for a capital offense; reprieve.
—v.t. ·pit·ed, ·pit·ing
1. To relieve by a pause or rest.
2. To grant delay in the execution of (a penalty, sentence, etc.).
3. To put off or postpone. [<OF respit <Med. L respectus delay <L, consideration, regard <respicere. See RESPECT.] Synonyms (noun): delay, forbearance, interval, pause, postponement, reprieve, rest, stay. Antonyms: accomplishment, completion, consummation, effect, execution, operation, performance.