recess recess /ˈriːsɛs/

noun

1. A pause from doing something (as work)  ( recess , time out , break , respite )
   a pause from doing something (as work)
    We took a 10-minute break
   we took a 10-minute break
    He took time out to recuperate
   he took time out to recuperate
   
   
2. An enclosure that is set back or indented  ( recess , niche )
   an enclosure that is set back or indented
   
   
3. An arm off of a larger body of water (often between rocky headlands)  ( recess , inlet )
   an arm off of a larger body of water (often between rocky headlands)
     The small fishing village nestled in a scenic inlet, sheltered from the open sea.
   The small fishing village nestled in a scenic inlet, sheltered from the open sea.
   
4. A small concavity  ( recess , recession , niche , corner )
   a small concavity
    The kitten curled up in a small corner of the room.
   The kitten curled up in a small corner of the room.
   
   
5. A state of abeyance or suspended business  ( deferral , recess )
   a state of abeyance or suspended business
   

verb

1. () Put into a recess  ( recess )
   put into a recess
    Recess lights
   recess lights
   
2. Close at the end of a session  ( break up , recess , adjourn )
   close at the end of a session
    The court adjourned
   The court adjourned
   
3. Make a recess in  ( recess )
   make a recess in
    Recess the piece of wood
   recess the piece of wood