[re.spite] n [ME respit, fr. OF, fr. ML respectus, fr. L, act of looking back--more at respect] (13c) 1: a period of temporary delay; esp: reprieve 1b
2: an interval of rest or relief
[2]respite vt re.spit.ed ; re.spit.ing (14c) 1: to grant a respite to
2: put off, delay