reprieve

English

Etymology

1571, in sense of “to take back to prison”, from Middle English repryen (“to remand, detain”) (1494), probably from Middle French repris, form of reprendre (“take back”); cognate to reprise. Sense generalized, but retains connotations of punishment and execution. Noun attested 1598.

Verb

reprieve (third-person singular simple present reprieves, present participle reprieving, simple past and past participle reprieved)

1. (transitive) To cancel or postpone the punishment of someone, especially an execution.
2. (transitive) To bring relief to someone.
3. (transitive, obsolete) To take back to prison (in lieu of execution).

Noun

reprieve (plural reprieves)

1. The cancellation or postponement of a punishment.
2. A document authorizing such an action.
3. Relief from pain etc., especially temporary.