Dispatch Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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dispatch
[dɪˈspætʃ ]
Definitions
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
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.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
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.
Origin of 'dispatch'
Main points about word origin
- 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.
The word 'dispatch' originated from the Old French word 'despeechier', which meant 'to set free'. Over time, the meaning evolved to include the sense of sending off or dealing with something promptly. The word has been used in English since the 16th century.
See also: dispatchable, dispatcher.