Edit page | Page history | Printable version

Dispatch

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.

Synonym: Haste, hurry, promptness, celerity, speed. See Haste.

Origin: cf. OF. Despeche, f. Depeche. See dispatch

alternative forms: despatch.