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 cabin served as a respite through all things, even the hardest,” said Kristie.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 30, 2026

The returning Robert Baloucoune scored a superb try for brief respite, but Baptiste Erdocio and Wilfrid Hounkpatin responded in brutal fashion to end any faint hopes of a comeback.

From BBC • May 22, 2026

“Employers can offer flexible schedules and paid leave. Policymakers can expand caregiver supports, respite care and paid family leave.”

From MarketWatch • May 21, 2026

Becerra responded with an ad that highlighted California’s natural beauty, from the coastline to the desert to the redwoods, as a respite from the deluge of Steyer ads.

From Los Angeles Times • May 19, 2026

And he was in the midst of it, wanting again to let his body taste of that short respite of rest he had felt after talking with Max.

From "Native Son" by Richard Wright

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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