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
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Recent Examples of recess
Jennah Pendleton,
Sacbee.com,
24 June 2026
The primary upside catalyst for the broader crypto industry, the market structure bill known as the CLARITY Act, has about five weeks to clear a key legislative hurdle before Congress’ summer recess.
—
Tanaya MacHeel,
CNBC,
24 June 2026
Bryan P. Sears,
Baltimore Sun,
29 May 2026
The trial was recessed Wednesday and is likely to be dismissed as soon as Thursday.
—
Jeff McDonald,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
20 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for recess
Noun
Councilmember Mai Vang was in the middle of questioning Deputy Chief Dan Monk about the police department’s activity around the building when the disruption began, ultimately forcing the council into a recess during which everyone but city staff and reporters were forced to vacate the chambers.
—
Jennah Pendleton,
Sacbee.com,
24 June 2026
The primary upside catalyst for the broader crypto industry, the market structure bill known as the CLARITY Act, has about five weeks to clear a key legislative hurdle before Congress’ summer recess.
—
Tanaya MacHeel,
CNBC,
24 June 2026
Verb
Meanwhile, Pierson recessed proceedings to begin drafting an order to vacate the original injunction and add Imhoff as a party to the hearing on whether Penman should be restored to the office he was forced from in January 2025.
—
Bryan P. Sears,
Baltimore Sun,
29 May 2026
The trial was recessed Wednesday and is likely to be dismissed as soon as Thursday.
—
Jeff McDonald,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
20 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for recess
Recent Examples of Synonyms for recess
Noun
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This space houses a stone alcove bed, additional sleeping space, a generous kitchen, and a beautiful bathroom of stone and cocciopesto.
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Other highlights include a sunken living room centered around a fireplace, with a bay-windowed alcove that accommodates a grand piano beneath a vintage Murano milk-glass calla lily chandelier.
Noun
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Under either scenario, including a resignation, he’d be entitled to receive compensation for unused vacation days.
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Perplexed is wanting to go to Europe on vacation, but mom only wants the two children caring for her.
Noun
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As a result, the world’s energy needs went on pause as oil and gas could not flow freely through this critical area.
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In the third round, Magomedov poked Pereira in the eye, forcing a roughly two-minute pause, and still no point came off.
Noun
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The crash also resulted in a large hole in the side of the vessel.
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The piece has seven holes for customization, and it’s designed to be worn at the hips or waist.
Verb
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Despite the extra funding, the budget continues a trend of relying on reserves, shifting funds, borrowing and suspending debt payments to balance state spending.
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Earlier this month, Anthropic disabled customer access to both Mythos and Fable to comply with the US government’s order to suspend all use by foreign nationals — including Anthropic employees themselves.
Noun
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Crimea has been a popular holiday destination for Russians and Ukrainians since before Soviet times.
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Officials announce service on the line will resume Friday on a holiday/weekend schedule, with busing between Miller and Hegewisch stations because of the derailment and power loss.
Noun
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But by Sunday morning, residents in southern Lebanon reported a lull in Israeli strikes.
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Intense fighting broke out on Friday morning after a relative lull in fighting following the announcement of the MOU.
Noun
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The extra saliva helps rinse away food particles and bacteria that can contribute to cavities, making gum a useful addition to your travel routine.
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Rather than a small drawer or tray, the divided top of West Elm’s storage coffee table rotates to reveal an empty storage cavity to fill with throw blankets, books, or video game controllers.
Cite this Entry
“Recess.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/recess. Accessed 28 Jun. 2026.
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