DESPATCH or DISPATCH, to send off immediately, or by express; particularly in the case of the sending of official messages, or of the immediate sending of troops to their destina tion, or the like. The word is used as a substantive of written official reports of events, battles and the like, sent by ambas sadors, generals, etc., by means of a special messenger, or of express correspondence generally. From the primary meaning of the prompt sending of a message, the word is used of the quick disposal of business, or of the disposal. of a person by violence. The French word depeche came into England as depeach, which was in use from the 15th century until "despatch" was introduced. An early use of "dispatch" occurs in a letter to Henry VIII. from Bishop Tunstall, commissioner to Spain in 1516-17.