n. 1. a. A temporary cessation of the customary activities of an engagement, occupation, or pursuit: The chairman of the committee called for a recess until Thursday. See Synonyms at pause. b. A period in the school day during which students are given time to play or relax. 2. often recesses A remote, secret, or secluded place: a bird that lives deep in the recesses of the forest. 3. a. An indentation or small hollow: Dirt accumulated in the recesses of the statue. b. An alcove. v. re·cessed, re·cess·ing, re·cess·es v.tr. 1. To place in a recess. 2. To create or fashion a recess in: recessed a portion of the wall. 3. To suspend for a recess: The committee chair recessed the hearings. v.intr. To take a recess: The investigators recessed for lunch. |
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