Dispatch: meaning, definitions and examples

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dispatch

 

[dɪˈspætʃ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

emergency services

The act of sending someone or something out to a location to deal with an emergency situation, such as police, firefighters, or paramedics.

Synonyms

deploy, mobilize, send out.

Examples of usage

  • The dispatch of police officers to the scene of the crime was swift and efficient.
  • The quick dispatch of the fire department saved the building from total destruction.
Context #2 | Verb

orders

To send off to a destination or for a purpose; to give orders for something to be done.

Synonyms

assign, direct, send.

Examples of usage

  • The manager dispatched the courier to deliver the urgent package.
  • He dispatched his assistant to handle the paperwork.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'dispatchare', meaning 'to send off' or 'to put away'.
  • It entered the English language in the late 14th century, reflecting its roots in commerce and military communication.
  • The prefix 'dis-' indicates a sense of separation or movement away, which is central to the meaning of sending off.

History

  • In the 19th century, dispatch riders played a crucial role in delivering messages during wars, often using bicycles or horses.
  • The invention of the telegraph revolutionized the concept of dispatch, allowing messages to be sent almost instantaneously over long distances.
  • Today, the term is used in logistics, showing how important fast delivery has become in global trade.

Business

  • Efficient dispatch systems are vital in supply chain management to ensure timely deliveries and customer satisfaction.
  • Many modern companies use software tools to optimize the dispatch process, reducing delays and costs.
  • The phrase 'dispatching orders' refers to the act of shipping customer requests quickly and accurately.

Military

  • In military terminology, a 'dispatch' often refers to an official report or message sent by a commanding officer.
  • The rapid dispatch of troops and supplies can be crucial in determining the success of military operations.
  • Historically, dispatches have played a key role in wartime announcements and strategies.

Media

  • In journalism, a dispatch is often a report sent by a journalist from a distant location, providing timely news updates.
  • Television news often uses the term 'live dispatch' when broadcasting real-time events to keep viewers informed.
  • With the rise of digital communication, dispatches can now be sent instantly through various platforms, enhancing information flow.

Translations

Translations of the word "dispatch" in other languages:

🇵🇹 despacho

🇮🇳 प्रेषण (pras̄aṇ)

🇩🇪 Versand

🇮🇩 pengiriman

🇺🇦 відправлення

🇵🇱 wysyłka

🇯🇵 発送 (はっそう, hassou)

🇫🇷 expédition

🇪🇸 despacho

🇹🇷 gönderim

🇰🇷 발송 (발송, balsong)

🇸🇦 إرسال (irsal)

🇨🇿 odeslání

🇸🇰 odoslanie

🇨🇳 派遣 (pàiqiǎn)

🇸🇮 pošiljanje

🇮🇸 sendi

🇰🇿 жөнелту

🇬🇪 გაგზავნა (gagzavna)

🇦🇿 göndərmə

🇲🇽 despacho

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,479 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.