I. ˈrē-ˌses, ri-ˈ noun
Etymology: Latin recessus, from recedere to recede
Date: 1531
1. : the action of receding : recession
2. : a hidden, secret, or secluded place or part
3.
a. : indentation , cleft
a deep recess in the hill
b. : alcove
a recess lined with books
4. : a suspension of business or procedure often for rest or relaxation
children playing at recess
II. verb
Date: 1809
transitive verb
1. : to put into a recess
recess ed lighting
2. : to make a recess in
3. : to interrupt for a recess
intransitive verb
: to take a recess