respite
     n 1: a (temporary) relief from harm or discomfort [syn: {reprieve}]
     2: a pause from doing something (as work); "we took a 10-minute
        break"; "he took time out to recuperate" [syn: {recess}, {break},
         {time out}]
     3: an interruption in the intensity or amount of something
        [syn: {suspension}, {reprieve}, {hiatus}, {abatement}]
     4: a pause for relaxation; "people actually accomplish more
        when they take time for short rests" [syn: {rest}, {relief},
         {rest period}]
     5: the act of reprieving; postponing or remitting punishment
        [syn: {reprieve}]
     v : postpone the punishment of a convicted criminal, such as an
         execution [syn: {reprieve}]
Source: WordNet® 2.0