rɪˈses n. & v. --n. 1 a
space set
back in a
wall; a
niche. 2 (often in pl.) a
remote or
secret place (the innermost recesses). 3 a
temporary cessation from work,
esp. of
Parliament, or US of a
lawcourt or
during a school
day. 4 Anat. a fold or
indentation in an
organ. 5 Geog. a receding
part of a
mountain chain etc. --v. 1 tr.
make a recess
in. 2 tr. place in a recess; set back. 3 US a intr.
take a recess;
adjourn. b tr.
order a temporary cessation from
the work of (a
court etc.). [L recessus (as RECEDE)]