missive

noun

mis·​sive ˈmi-siv 

: a written communication : letter

wrote a lengthy missive to her father

Synonyms of missive

• letter
• epistle

Examples of missive in a Sentence

She received yet another lengthy missive from her father.

the two old friends like to fire off missives filled with good-natured teasing and mock insults

Recent Examples on the Web

The missive, which could be a precursor to a lawsuit, opens another avenue of attack against the controversial $111-billion deal, which would transform the smaller Paramount into an industry titan. —Meg James, Los Angeles Times, 8 May 2026

The decision by Bishop Michael Barber affects 12 parishes and one pastoral center across Oakland, Fremont, Alameda, Castro Valley and Crockett, according to a missive posted online Tuesday. —Jakob Rodgers, Mercury News, 30 Apr. 2026

The missive was identified by researchers Jessica Lockhart and Chana Algarvio during a closer examination of the fragment using advanced imaging. —Andrea Margolis, FOXNews.com, 26 Apr. 2026

Lynch’s latest missive to employees suggested that the ship had been righted. —Pradnya Joshi, semafor.com, 16 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle French lettre missive, literally, letter intended to be sent

First Known Use

circa 1553, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for missive

• derisive
• dismissive
• emissive
• permissive
• submissive
• transmissive

Kids Definition

missive

noun

mis·​sive ˈmis-iv 

: letter entry 1 sense 2, message