1. a temporary delay or cancellation of punishment, especially the execution of a death sentence
Usage: legal
2. a temporary relief from something difficult or unpleasant

1. to delay or cancel the punishment of someone, especially a death sentence
Usage: legal
2. to give temporary relief from something difficult or unpleasant

Examples

• The governor granted a last-minute reprieve to the condemned prisoner.
• The rain provided a welcome reprieve from the scorching heat.
• The court decided to reprieve the defendant pending further investigation.
• After months of overtime, the vacation was a much-needed reprieve.
• The judge reprieved the sentence until new evidence could be reviewed.
• The cool breeze offered a brief reprieve from the summer humidity.
• The company’s financial troubles were reprieved by an unexpected loan.