| 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. Source: Websters Dictionary (01 Mar 1998) |
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