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Despatch: meaning, definitions and examples

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despatch

 

[ dɪˈspæʧ ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

sending goods

Despatch refers to the action of sending goods or messages to a specific destination. It can also imply the speed at which something is sent or completed. In business and logistics, despatch is crucial for ensuring timely delivery of products.

Synonyms

consignment, delivery, dispatch, shipment

Examples of usage

  • The despatch of the new orders will occur tomorrow.
  • We tracked the despatch of our shipment to ensure on-time arrival.
  • They handled the despatch quickly to meet customer demands.
Context #2 | Verb

sending quickly

To despatch means to send off to a destination or for a purpose. The term emphasizes efficiency and speed in the action of sending, often used in logistics and communication. This verb can also denote killing or putting an end to something quickly.

Synonyms

execute, forward, send, ship

Examples of usage

  • She will despatch the letters first thing in the morning.
  • They decided to despatch the old items to charity.
  • The officer was instructed to despatch the suspect immediately.

Translations

Translations of the word "despatch" in other languages:

🇵🇹 despachar

🇮🇳 भेजना

🇩🇪 versenden

🇮🇩 mengirim

🇺🇦 відправлення

🇵🇱 wysyłka

🇯🇵 発送する

🇫🇷 expédier

🇪🇸 despachar

🇹🇷 göndermek

🇰🇷 발송하다

🇸🇦 إرسال

🇨🇿 odeslat

🇸🇰 odoslať

🇨🇳 发送

🇸🇮 poslati

🇮🇸 send

🇰🇿 жіберу

🇬🇪 გაგზავნა

🇦🇿 göndərmək

🇲🇽 despachar

Word origin

The word 'despatch' originates from the Old French term 'despacho', which means 'to send off'. This, in turn, derived from the Latin 'dispatiare', meaning 'to scatter, disperse'. The evolution of the word reflects the historical context in which communication and logistics became increasingly important. Initially used to describe the act of sending messages or official documents, despatch gained significance in trade and commerce as the need for swift delivery of goods and information expanded. By the 17th century, the spelling 'despatch' became more prevalent, particularly in British English, whereas 'dispatch' is often favored in American English. The term has retained its core meaning throughout its development, emphasizing the importance of timely action and delivery.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,896 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.