1
2
as in vacation
a period during which the usual routine of school or work is suspended
the couple goes to Florida every January for a month-long recess from the rigors of winter
Synonyms & Similar Words
3
as in pause
a momentary halt in an activity
the judge called for a brief recess so that the witness could regain her composure
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
4
as in hole
a sunken area forming a separate space
decided to camp in a sandy recess where the beach met the forest
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
as in to suspend
to bring to a formal close for a period of time
the judge recessed the court for lunch
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of recess
Cuneyt Dil, Axios, 24 Feb. 2025
The House is in recess this week as the Senate works to adopt its resolution.
—Caitlin Yilek, CBS News, 20 Feb. 2025
Angela Serratore, New York Times, 17 Feb. 2025
After the comment was made during the committee meeting it was temporarily recessed and neither alderman returned.
—Chicago Tribune, 5 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for recess
Noun
One exception: If the president takes control of MPD during an extended congressional break (such as a recess or government shutdown), POTUS would retain control until lawmakers return.
—Cuneyt Dil, Axios, 24 Feb. 2025
The House is in recess this week as the Senate works to adopt its resolution.
—Caitlin Yilek, CBS News, 20 Feb. 2025
Verb
The galley-style kitchen, off the dining area, has recessed lighting and stainless steel appliances.
—Angela Serratore, New York Times, 17 Feb. 2025
After the comment was made during the committee meeting it was temporarily recessed and neither alderman returned.
—Chicago Tribune, 5 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for recess
Recent Examples of Synonyms for recess
Noun
-
The inside of the tomb is known for its intricate latticed screens, arched alcoves, and a double dome design following a typical medieval Mughal aesthetic.—
Shalbha Sarda,
Architectural Digest,
4 Mar. 2025
-
The primary suite, which Palmer once used as his personal office, has a fireplace alcove with seating and a spa-like bathroom.—
Emma Reynolds,
Forbes,
14 Jan. 2025
Noun
-
As an adult, these can take the form of remembering specific events, like watching a sports match or taking a vacation.—
Andrew Paul,
Popular Science,
21 Mar. 2025
-
Made with 100 percent cotton, this boho Free People top is perfect for a beach vacation or a casual Sunday brunch.—
Melony Forcier,
Travel + Leisure,
20 Mar. 2025
Noun
-
Since then, The Bachelorette has had 21 seasons and 23 leads (Seasons 16 and 19 had two Bachelorettes) until February 2025 when news broke that ABC had put the series on pause.—
Jason Pham,
StyleCaster,
17 Mar. 2025
-
According to fans at the show, an announcer told the crowd that the unplanned pause was due to an electrical fire and said Journey would continue the show, ABC 13 Houston reported.—
Bailey Richards,
People.com,
15 Mar. 2025
Noun
-
Berkshire showcased mental fortitude on No. 17, perhaps the most famous par-3 hole on the PGA Tour.—
Bennett Conlin,
Baltimore Sun,
13 Mar. 2025
-
To prevent wildfires under a red flag warning, follow these steps: If burning is allowed in your location, make sure all burn barrels are fitted with a weighted metal cover that has holes no bigger than 3/4 of an inch.—
STAR-TELEGRAM WEATHER BOT,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
13 Mar. 2025
Verb
-
As part of that pressure campaign, Trump temporarily suspended U.S. aid and intelligence sharing to and with Ukraine late last month.—
David Axe,
Forbes,
19 Mar. 2025
-
Platt was suspended the day after a Jackson County jury verdict awarded former city communications director Chris Hernandez nearly $930,000 in damages in his whistleblower lawsuit against the city.—
Mike Hendricks,
Kansas City Star,
19 Mar. 2025
Noun
-
The Pot of Gold Doughnut, Over the Rainbow Doughnut, Choco-Shenanigans Doughnut and St. Patty’s Swirl Doughnut each offered its unique spin on the Irish holiday.—
Rachel Raposas,
People.com,
19 Mar. 2025
-
Design limited-time holiday offers through your menu and events.—
Carey Bringle,
Forbes,
19 Mar. 2025
Noun
-
There’s a bit of a lull in the dining room as Lira scans the tables.—
Cindy Carcamo,
Los Angeles Times,
19 Mar. 2025
-
With the exception of a lull on the 16th, strong wind has been the norm around here since last week.—
Matthew Adams,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
19 Mar. 2025
Noun
-
In some areas, the level of naturally occurring fluoride in the water is already at a level that can prevent cavities.—
Alyssa Goldberg,
USA TODAY,
19 Mar. 2025
-
The mineral strengthens teeth and reduces cavities.—
Amy Feldman,
Forbes,
12 Mar. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Recess.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/recess. Accessed 24 Mar. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share