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Meaning of Word

Dispatch refers to the act of sending something or someone to a particular destination or purpose quickly. It can also refer to the completion of a task efficiently and swiftly. Additionally, it can describe the sending of official messages, goods, or personnel.

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. To send away or deliver: The act of sending something, such as goods, messages, or people, to a specific location or for a particular purpose.
2. To complete or finish quickly: To carry out a task or duty promptly and efficiently.
3. Official communication or message: A report or message sent, often in the context of news, business, or government communication.
4. To kill or put an end to (in a more formal or historical context): Often used to describe the act of quickly and decisively ending something, including in the context of ending life.

History and Origin

The word “dispatch” comes from the Latin dis (meaning apart) and pascere (to feed or arrange), which evolved through Old French despachier, meaning “to send away.” Over time, it has expanded to include meanings related to efficiency, completing tasks, and sending communications. The word has been in use since the 15th century.

Detailed Explanation

Dispatch is most commonly used in the context of sending something or someone quickly and efficiently to a specific location. For example, in a business setting, dispatch often refers to the process of sending goods out to customers. In military or emergency contexts, it can refer to the rapid sending of personnel or resources to an area of need.

The word is also used to describe the act of finishing or completing a task in a prompt and efficient manner. For example, a manager might “dispatch” a project, meaning they complete it quickly. Additionally, dispatch can refer to official communications, such as news reports or governmental messages, that are sent out in a timely manner.

In older or more formal usage, “dispatch” can also mean to end or kill someone swiftly, especially in historical contexts such as warfare or execution.

Example Sentences

1. The delivery company was able to dispatch the package within hours of receiving the order.
2. The general dispatched troops to the front lines as quickly as possible.
3. She dispatched the report to her manager before the deadline.
4. After receiving the emergency call, the ambulance was dispatched immediately.
5. The news agency dispatched a reporter to cover the developing story.
6. The soldier was dispatched on a mission to gather intelligence.
7. He dispatched the task with remarkable speed and efficiency.
8. The company decided to dispatch a team of engineers to troubleshoot the issue on-site.
9. The commander dispatched orders to his troops, ensuring they were prepared for the next phase of battle.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Send – To cause something to go or be taken to a destination.
2. Deliver – To take something to a destination or recipient, often used for packages or communications.
3. Forward – To send something onward or in the direction of a specific place or person.
4. Transmit – To send or pass on information or items, particularly used for electronic messages.
5. Distribute – To give out or allocate items to various recipients, often used in contexts like goods or information.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Courier – A person or service responsible for delivering messages or packages, closely related to the idea of dispatch.
2. Expedition – A journey or mission, often involving the dispatch of personnel or resources to an area.
3. Communication – The act of transmitting information, often involving dispatching messages or reports.
4. Assignment – A task or duty given to someone, which may involve the need for dispatch.
5. Alert – A notice or warning, often sent out quickly or in response to an urgent need.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Deployment – The act of sending out resources, personnel, or units, similar to dispatching for specific purposes.
2. Shipment – The sending or delivery of goods, typically involving the process of dispatching items.
3. Mission – A specific task or assignment, sometimes involving dispatching people or resources.
4. Notice – A formal communication sent out, particularly in contexts like dispatching official messages.
5. Emergency Response – The process of quickly sending help or resources to address a crisis, akin to dispatching services.

Antonyms

1. Receive – To accept or take delivery of something, the opposite of dispatching or sending.
2. Delay – To postpone or put off sending something or someone, opposite of dispatching quickly.
3. Retain – To keep something, rather than sending or dispatching it elsewhere.
4. Halt – To stop the movement or sending of something, in contrast to dispatching.
5. Withhold – To hold back or not send, the opposite of dispatching or delivering.