Definition of reprieve

< repressor

reprimand >

re·prieve    (r-prv) KEY 

TRANSITIVE VERB:
re·prieved, re·priev·ing, re·prieves

1. To postpone or cancel the punishment of.
2. To bring relief to.

NOUN:

1. 1. Postponement or cancellation of a punishment.
   2. A warrant for such an action.
2. Temporary relief, as from danger or pain.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Alteration (influenced by Middle English repreven, to contradict, variant of reproven, to rebuke), of Middle English reprien probably from Old French repris, past participle of reprendre, to take back, from Latin reprehendere, reprndere, to hold back ; see reprehend

OTHER FORMS:
re·prieva·ble(Adjective)