reprieve
reprieve Lexical Profile
reprieve Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A temporary escape or relief from an undesirable fate, unpleasant situation, or difficulty.
"The sudden rainstorm brought a welcome reprieve from the oppressive summer heat."
A cancellation or postponement of a punishment, especially of a death sentence.
"The governor granted a last-minute reprieve to the prisoner while new evidence was being reviewed."
• verb
To abandon or postpone plans to close, cancel, or destroy something, providing temporary relief.
"The city council voted to reprieve the historic library after residents raised funds for its renovation."
To cancel or postpone the punishment of someone, especially a person condemned to death.
"The appellate court decided to reprieve the defendant pending a full constitutional review."
• Rhymes for reprieve
Word Origin & Etymology
Altered in the 16th century from Middle English 'repryen', derived from Anglo-French 'reprises', the past participle of 'reprendre' (to take back), ultimately from Latin 'reprehendere' (to hold back or seize).