from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Dispatch \Dis*patch"\, n. [Cf. OF. despeche, F. d['e]p[^e]che.
See {Dispatch}, v. t.] [Written also {despatch}.]
1. The act of sending a message or messenger in haste or on
important business.
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2. Any sending away; dismissal; riddance.
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To the utter dispatch of all their most beloved
comforts. --Milton.
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3. The finishing up of a business; speedy performance, as of
business; prompt execution; diligence; haste.
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Serious business, craving quick dispatch. --Shak.
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To carry his scythe . . . with a sufficient dispatch
through a sufficient space. --Paley.
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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.
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5. A message transmitted by telegraph. [Modern]
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{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.
Syn: Haste; hurry; promptness; celerity; speed. See {Haste}.
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