reprieve
1 antonym for reprieve — opposites grouped by meaning.
Verb — To cancel or delay a punishment, especially an execution.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. verb
To cancel or delay a punishment, especially an execution.
“The governor reprieved the prisoner just hours before the scheduled execution.”
2. noun
A cancellation or postponement of a punishment, or more generally, temporary relief from something unpleasant.
“The factory workers got a last-minute reprieve when the closure was postponed.”
Opposites
Antonyms
How to use reprieve
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
a stay of execution
temporary reprieve
grant a reprieve
Etymology
First recorded around 1513, likely from Middle French repris ("taken back"), related to reprendre ("to take back") — a cousin of "reprise."
Full origin of reprieve →Frequently asked questions
What does “reprieve” mean?
The word “reprieve” means to cancel or delay a punishment, especially an execution. In plain terms, a delay or escape from punishment, or a welcome break from hardship.
How do you pronounce “reprieve”?
“Reprieve” is pronounced rih-PREEV (/ɹɪˈpɹiːv/ in IPA).
How do you use “reprieve” in a sentence?
Here is “reprieve” used in a sentence: “The governor reprieved the prisoner just hours before the scheduled execution.”
What part of speech is “reprieve”?
Depending on how it is used, “reprieve” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “reprieve” come from?
The word “reprieve” dates back to around 1513 and comes from Middle French. First recorded around 1513, likely from Middle French repris ("taken back"), related to reprendre ("to take back") — a cousin of "reprise.".
How many meanings does “reprieve” have?
“Reprieve” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to cancel or delay a punishment, especially an execution.
