noun

1. A break, pause or vacation.

   “Spring recess offers a good chance to travel.”

2. An inset, hole, space or opening.

   “Put a generous recess behind the handle for finger space.”

3. A time of play during the school day, usually on a playground; break, playtime.

   “Students who do not listen in class will not play outside during recess.”

Synonyms: break, day off, hiatus, moratorium, pause, vacation

verb

1. To inset into something, or to recede.

   “Recess the screw so it does not stick out.”

2. To take or declare a break.

   “Class will recess for 20 minutes.”

3. To appoint, with a recess appointment.

adjective

1. Remote, distant (in time or place).