English vocabulary · C1
Respite
/ˈrespɪt/ · n.
Respite is a short time free from pain or hard work. The trouble has not ended, but you can feel better for a little while.
Watch the Respite lessonContinue in the learning app for video lessons and review.
Example sentences
- Rain gave farmers respite.
- In the garden, I found respite.
Word origin and roots
from Old French
- respit — delay (from Old French)
Synonyms and nuances
- REST — time without work (Stop and feel better)
- RELIEF — a less painful feeling (Less pain or worry)
- BREAK — a pause in activity (A short stop)
Similar words
- rest
- relief
- break
- pause
- reprieve
Lesson notes
Respite is a short time free from pain or hard work. The trouble has not ended, but you can feel better for a little while.
Related: rest, relief, break. Use respite when trouble stops briefly.
Rain gave farmers respite. In the garden, I found respite.
From Old French. respit- means delay. Respit became English respite. A delay gives tired hands respite.