recess

American  

[ri-ses, ree-ses] / rɪˈsɛs, ˈri sɛs /

noun

1. temporary withdrawal or cessation from the usual work or activity.

   Synonyms:

   vacation, break, rest, respite

2. a period of such withdrawal.

3. a receding recede part or space, as a bay or alcove in a room.

4. an indentation in a line or extent of coast, hills, forest, etc.

5. recesses, a secluded or inner area or part.

   in the recesses of the palace.

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verb (used with object)

1. to place or set in a recess.

2. to set or form as or like a recess; make a recess or recesses in.

   to recess a wall.

3. to suspend or defer for a recess.

   to recess the Senate.

verb (used without object)

1. to take a recess.

recess British  

noun

1. a space, such as a niche or alcove, set back or indented

2. (often plural) a secluded or secret place

   recesses of the mind

3. a cessation of business, such as the closure of Parliament during a vacation

4. anatomy a small cavity or depression in a bodily organ, part, or structure

5. a break between classes at a school

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verb

1. (tr) to place or set (something) in a recess

2. (tr) to build a recess or recesses in (a wall, building, etc)

Other Word Forms

• nonrecess noun

Etymology

Origin of recess

1510–20; < Latin recessus a withdrawal, receding part, equivalent to recēd ( ere ) to recede ¹ + -tus suffix of v. action, with dt > ss

Example Sentences

The radical plans could be unveiled in full as early as Monday, when MPs return to parliament, and there is likely to be dismay at a leak during recess and half term.

From BBC

At the same time, children are getting less time for recess even though it is proven to improve behavior and learning.

From Los Angeles Times

The Senate went into recess for a week starting Thursday, but senators could be called back to Washington in case of a rapid leap in negotiations.

From Barron's

“When we’re able to solve those problems, that is quite independent of the actual economy, whether it’s expanding or recessing,” he added.

From The Wall Street Journal

One senator hopes the recess may bring some clarity to Republican lawmakers on the local impacts of ICE and CBP in their own constituencies.

From Salon

Related Words

• closure
• hiatus
• holiday
• layoff
• lull
• pause
• respite
• suspension
• time-out
• vacation