Res″pite (r?s″p?t), n. [OF. respit, F. répit, from L. respectus respect, regard, delay, in LL., the deferring of a day. See Respect.] 1. A putting off of that which was appointed; a postponement or delay.
I crave but four day's respite. Shak.
2. Temporary intermission of labor, or of any process or operation; interval of rest; pause; delay. “Without more respite.” Chaucer.
Some pause and respite only I require. Denham.
3. (Law) (a) Temporary suspension of the execution of a capital offender; reprieve. (b) The delay of appearance at court granted to a jury beyond the proper term.
Syn. — Pause; interval; stop; cessation; delay; postponement; stay; reprieve.