Synonyms for recess

noun

1. An intermission

   respite, rest, pause, hiatus, interlude, break, timeout, time off, downtime, lull, breathing spell, cessation, stop, suspension, interregnum, interval, interim, halt, coffee break, breather*.

2. An indentation

   break, dent, corner, niche, pigeonhole, mouth, opening, embrasure, hollow, crutch, fork, angle; see also hole 2.

3. A recessed space

   cell, cubicle, carrel, alcove, nook, niche, cranny, oriel, hiding place, ambush, apse, closet, crypt, cove, bay; see also hole 3.