dispatch etymology

Etymology:

  • Middle English: despachen
  • Old French: despacher
  • Late Latin: dispedicare
  • Latin: expe(d)ire (to free, set free)

Meaning and Origin:

The word "dispatch" has several meanings:

  1. To send out or transport with haste: This meaning stems from the original Latin root "expe(d)ire," which means "to free" or "set free." Originally, "dispatch" referred to the act of freeing someone from prison or releasing a ship from port.

  2. To deal with or attend to a matter promptly: This meaning evolved from the earlier sense of sending out or transporting quickly. When applied to communication or the handling of tasks, "dispatch" implies urgency and efficiency.

  3. A message or communication sent urgently: In the 19th century, "dispatch" began to be used as a noun to refer to a message or communication that was sent with haste, particularly one related to diplomacy or military matters.

  4. A division of a police force responsible for handling special situations: This usage arose in the early 20th century, as many police departments established specialized units tasked with responding to emergencies and high-risk incidents.

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