n. & v.
n. 1 a shallow recess, esp. in a wall to contain a statue etc. 2 a comfortable or suitable position in life or employment. 3 an appropriate combination of conditions for a species to thrive.
v.tr. (often as niched adj.) 1 place in a niche. 2 ensconce (esp. oneself) in a recess or corner.
[ F f. nicher make a nest, ult. f. L nidus nest ]