respite


respite (http://definr.com/respite)

     n 1: a (temporary) relief from harm or discomfort [syn: reprieve]
     2: a pause from doing something (as work); "we took a 10-minute
        break"; "he took time out to recuperate" [syn: recess, break,
         time out]
     3: an interruption in the intensity or amount of something
        [syn: suspension, reprieve, hiatus, abatement]
     4: a pause for relaxation; "people actually accomplish more
        when they take time for short rests" [syn: rest, relief,
         rest period]
     5: the act of reprieving; postponing or remitting punishment
        [syn: reprieve]
     v 1: postpone the punishment of a convicted criminal, such as an
          execution [syn: reprieve]
     2: grant a respite to