Dis‐patch″, n. [Cf. OF. despeche, F. dépêche. See Dispatch, v. t.] [Written also despatch.] 1. The act of sending a message or messenger in haste or on important business.
2. Any sending away; dismissal; riddance.
To the utter dispatch of all their most beloved comforts. Milton.
3. The finishing up of a business; speedy performance, as of business; prompt execution; diligence; haste.
Serious business, craving quick dispatch. Shak.
To carry his scythe... with a sufficient dispatch through a sufficient space. Paley.
4. A message dispatched or sent with speed; especially, an important official letter sent from one public officer to another; — often used in the plural; as, a messenger has arrived with dispatches for the American minister; naval or military dispatches.
5. A message transmitted by telegraph.
Dispatch boat, a swift vessel for conveying dispatches; an advice boat. — Dispatch box, a box for carrying dispatches; a box for papers and other conveniences when traveling.
Syn. — Haste; hurry; promptness; celerity; speed. See Haste.