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Definitions

recess

[ri-ses, ree-ses] / rɪˈsɛs, ˈri sɛs /
NOUN
niche, corner
Synonyms
STRONG
alcove ambush angle apse bay break carrel cavity cell closet cove cranny crutch crypt cubicle dent depression depths embrasure fork heart hole hollow indentation mouth nook opening oriel penetralia reaches retreat slot socket
WEAK
hiding place secret place
Antonyms
STRONG
bulge closure misfortune solid
WEAK
continuation
NOUN
break, interval in action
Synonyms
STRONGEST
closure hiatus holiday layoff lull pause respite suspension time-out vacation
STRONG
breather cessation cutoff downtime halt interlude intermission interregnum letup rest stop ten
WEAK
breakoff breathing spell coffee break happy hour
Antonyms
STRONGEST
continuation persistence
STRONG
beginning go start
VERB
stop action
Synonyms
STRONGEST
adjourn break off break up dissolve terminate
STRONG
drop pigeonhole prorogue rise shake sideline
WEAK
call time drop it prorogate put on hold take a break take a breather take five take ten
Antonyms
STRONGEST
begin open start
WEAK
continue

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The sharp axe of member-driven justice may not end there, as the House returned to a bevy of simmering misdeeds following its two-week recess.

From Slate • Apr. 16, 2026

The Commons does not return after the elections until the State Opening of Parliament on 13 May, before breaking again for recess on 21 May.

From BBC • Apr. 14, 2026

TMZ is turning its celebrity lens on Congress, tracking lawmakers on recess as a nearly six-week Department of Homeland Security shutdown drags on.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

Congress is in recess this week after failing to fund the TSA.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 31, 2026

Right before recess Mrs. Fisher tells me and Angel that we did an excellent job.

From "Isaiah Dunn Is My Hero" by Kelly J. Baptist

Vocabulary lists containing recess

Vocabulary from The Articles of Confederation

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