[1] : The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48

missive \mis"sive\, n. f. lettre missive. see mission, n.
   1. that which is sent; a writing containing a message.
      1913 webster

   2. one who is sent; a messenger. obs. --shak.
      1913 webster
see also:
mission 

[2] : The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48

missive \mis"sive\, a. see missive, n.
   1. specially sent; intended or prepared to be sent; as, a
      letter missive. --ayliffe.
      1913 webster

   2. missile. "the missive weapons fly." --dryden.
      1913 webster

   letters missive, letters conveying the permission, comand,
      or advice of a superior authority, as a sovereign. they
      are addressed and sent to some certain person or persons,
      and are distinguished from letters patent, which are
      addressed to the public.
      1913 webster
see also:
missive letters missive 

[3] : WordNet (r) 2.0

missive
     n : a written message addressed to a person or organization;
         "mailed an indignant letter to the editor" syn: letter
see also:
letter 

Missive >> M Words
Missive, definition of term: Missive
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